No News is Good News When You Have an Estranged Adult Child
- Crystal McDaniel
- Jul 15, 2024
- 2 min read

Today was just like any other work day. I got up, had my coffee, did my Bible study and prayer time. I had to take our dog Lilly Rose to the vet for her shots. She charmed the office. She is a very happy dog, she smiles all the time, and is very friendly and loving. When we got home, she was so happy! She went straight for the door and was greeted by Pippin, Duchess, and Jace. They were very happy she returned home. It was so great to see. They were sad when she left and happy when she came home. That is the way it needs to be for all of us. I got a quick lunch and then headed upstairs to the studio to work with my students for the day. It was fun to have new ideas that I picked up in Italy, and show them an easier way to work on their technique. I was happy to see the students be successful at applying what they are learning. I love that part of my job!
Later in the day I was contacted privately by another friend, letting me know that she is going through an estrangement with her daughter, as well as, her sister. It is helpful to have friends reach out to me. I am glad that we can help one another. That is the best thing that can happen. Estrangement makes you feel so abandoned. It is as though there is a big sign over your head that flashes, "I'M A FAILURE AS A PARENT!" When someone reaches out and says, "Hey! I'm here! This is happening to me too!" It is much appreciated by me. We just want to stop feeling sad. We just want to feel loved and supported just like everyone does. None of us are hearing from our children. We all cry over little things, and experience feelings of helplessness and loss.
Since I do not hear from my estranged daughter at all, I am looking at it through the lens of, "No New is Good News." She must be doing well, and she must be healthy. I know she has a roof over her head and food and clothes. Her basic needs are being met. I know my estranged adult daughter is in contact with her sister, her brother, her grandparents, and her dad. I am grateful that she is still in touch with people in the family. As painful as it is to not have any contact with her, I am glad that they are speaking with her. It gives me some comfort.
Every single day, I make an effort to look for something to be thankful for that is in front of me now. Today, I am grateful for another friend reaching out
to me, telling me that she read my blog and that she is here, going through the same thing and I am not alone. Thank you for reaching out Sally. I am here for you as well!





Comments