Being a mother has been the most rewarding and challenging role in my life. There was no training or preparation for it, and little discussion about the importance of the job. As a young mother, I was inexperienced at being selfless and certainly didn’t have a clue about the weighty ramifications of my decisions. They forgot to give me the instruction booklet for parenting in school!
Being a parent (aunt, uncle or teacher) is an incredible opportunity to pass on beliefs and attitudes, to influence the feelings and mindset of another person who will make a difference in one way or another. We provide the vessel for the child to alchemize our teachings and their unique character into a brand new creation. It takes some conscious effort, though, to be aware of what we want to pass on. When we think it’s automatic, we might miss the chance to illuminate values that are important to us. What do we want this child to feel about himself? Feeling loved and worthy is an essential foundation for healthy growth. How do we think she should treat others? How can we influence his ability to make healthy choices? How do we teach her to stand up for herself while being considerate of others?
It takes looking at ourselves first. What has been important to us? What do we want to change in the next generation? We are each a link in a chain. We can change the trajectory from what we were taught to what feels relevant to us now. Responsible self-examination is a good start toward knowing what we want to teach our children.
Love this!!
I think one of the most difficult things is to accept your children for who they are…not who you want them to be. My son, at the age of 12, taught me that lesson. I thank him still.
I continue to learn from my children and with them also. And I am grateful to be smarter now that you am a grandparent.
WOW……………Toni is 100% right on. Kahil Gibran said, “your children come through you NOT from you”. If one is a successful parent he will give his children what he thinks they need THEN sit back and be supportive as THEY choose their lives. You might not like what they choose, but who are you to tell another human being how to live their life. Ellie you are wonderful. love, mom