I remember a few years ago when I had the time to watch Oprah. I recall an episode about a writing a journal and book of gratitude.
I'm reminded again about writing and thinking of something to be thankful for.
It seems that our days are so stressful. We're mothers, teachers, drivers/taxis, home maker, employee, boss, sportsmoms, oh the list goes on and on. Some days we just want to just retreat in our little corner and scream don't we? Then there are those other times that we look down at the little people we have (meaning our children...if you have any), or look at a family member or just someone that blesses us in our life. Thank goodness for those people that just love us and make us feel good. Thank goodness sometimes for the runny noses and the feeling that we're needed, that we're loved.
As I face the challenges sometimes of the teenage years ahead of me, I'm trying my best to be calm and learning real fast that the disciplining for my five year old doesn't exactly work the same on my thirteen year-old anymore. It's not just the "because that's the rules". The older ones are struggling with their independence and they seem to want an answer and justification as to "why". I've struggled with feeling that I don't feel like I need to give a reason but lately I thought, why not?" They're not being rude or demanding and just curious my reason. So lately I've calmly and rationally given a slight insight and trying to offer them options. Why? Because one day they're going to be a parent too and I want them to understand the reasoning.
My children, are good children. I'm blessed and proud. No one is perfect obviously but my little people are trying to respect the rules and come out ahead as far as being independent.
I realize this blog may be a little bit all over the place today. That kind of goes inline with my thought! So, I guess I'm trying to say, parenting is hard. Parents, you're not alone if you're having a rough day. Just keep trying to communicate. I'm learning and thankful we're making some break-throughs. I don't miss being a teenager that's for sure!
So to my children, here's an open letter:
I'm grateful for you and love you. No matter what
happens and I know what you're going through. I'm always here to support you and
most of all will do my best to listen. Please come to me no matter what and
always tell me the truth. I can't promise that I won't get mad, but as a mom,
always have your back and will do my best to be patient and understanding.
I want you to know that my door is always open and that
you always have a place to come to for support. Even if you don't need me to say
anything and just want to vent, I'm here. There are so many pressures on you as
young people. Even if you just need a hug and just had a crappy day and can't
explain it, I'm here. You've got all those emotions, hormones, social stuff etc
all going on.
I pray you don't get into "the wrong crowd" and that
you never feel afraid to stand up for yourself and strong enough convictions to
walk away from a situation you're not comfortable with. I can only hope that the
more I let you go to be independent, strong young people, that you make the
right decisions and that as a parent, I've done my job.
Love you guys! You're the best. Thank you for blessing
and enriching my life. There's no other love that's unconditional and the bond
between parent and child is amazing and unbreakable.
Love,
mom
xo
