Separations can be very difficult.
The separation of a mother and child when the child goes off to school for the first time can be a difficult and painful day. The separation of the older child going off to college can kindle the fire of pain similar to that experienced of the first day of school. The separation of the young man or woman entering marriage and leaving family can be difficult on both sides. The separation brought about by a business trip can be upsetting and difficult. It is strange then that Jesus speaks today in such a positive way about separation.