Here's the first surprise: you are a parent forever.
Here's the second surprise: you are a frontline parent for just a very short period of your life.
I thought about this as I watched kids and their parents show up for the first day of school at Wasatch Elementary. Those proud parents were taking pictures of those clean, shiny kids like crazy, and I asked myself if I miss those moments.
No, not really. I had five kids, so I got my fill of Big Moments that way. But now from this vantage point (old person), I realize that even though I did have five kids, those years came and went like a short summer season. When you're in the middle of it all, you feel like it will last forever. But it doesn't.
Which is why you need to define yourself as a Whole Person--and not simply as a Parent. This is a PSA for young mothers and fathers: Embrace this time of your life fully. But nurture those other parts of yourself, as well, so they will be green and growing and ready to go when the time comes.
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4 comments:
Trying...
I feel like I'm holding my breath, waiting for the "me time" to come when my kids are in school. Thanks for the reminder about NOW.
I just copied and pasted this on my wall. This is so true. You are so wise. Should I stop now?
I haven’t read your blog in many months (ugh, it’s been a weird year. The end) and I would like to say thank you—for writing, and being wise, and being a friend. Thank you for coming to see me at my father’s viewing and telling me sweet stories of your own father’s passing. My sisters remarked how cool you are. I was like, “I know. I just love her.” Because I do. Bless you, Ann xo
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