Somehow even admitting that is difficult for some of us because we think that if we say it, then somehow we don't love being a parent enough. That we have failed our kids.
But it's okay. Parenting is hard. Kids can be difficult. And, God help us, we are human.
Like...really, really human.
And there are those of us who came from difficult backgrounds. And those of us who parent on our own. And those of us who have little darlings with special needs. And those of us...
Let's just put it out there, "the best of circumstances" is not the norm.
And we wonder all the time...did I do enough? Did I screw it up? Did I get it right? And most days we have to admit our human-ness.
But then...there are days when our kids clear it up for us.
.jpg)
My son (the college student!!!) had to write a paper for his Composition class. He discussed single parenting in America. He told our story. He called me strong, praised my perseverance...described my ferocity in his defense...the way I cared for him when he was hurt...the way I was there for him when my Dad died and how he got to be there for me...he said I was his example...his hero.
His teacher wrote a note on the front page. She called it a beautiful story and told him to make sure I got to read it. He told her he wasn't sure he wanted to do that, because I'd get all mushy and cry.
He was right. But they were happy tears.
Heads up, Moms and Dads...we give it our all and our kids notice.
And for those whose kids don't notice...because they can't or won't. You are a faithful, wonderful parent. Keep persevering. Keep being human.
As Glennon Doyle Melton says "Carry On Warrior!"
No comments:
Post a Comment