One of the discoveries I have made in being a parent for nearly 17 years now is that its not just about my children learning and growing, it is about me doing the same. I am amazed at how little I really know but how much more I do learn as I parent each of my three children.
I think what I have also found is that when I finally get an age or a stage down pat, I’m suddenly thrust into a new one. It’s not until it has passed and I look back that I can say what should and should not have been done. It is when you are in the midst of it that you are the most clueless.
I guess that’s why I try to refrain from giving parenting advice. And quite honestly, I get a little unnerved when someone else is trying to give it, especially if they are still in the midst of it or if they have yet to reach the same stage I am at.
I will never claim to be an expert or to do it all right. I do have my victorious moments but I have also made many mistakes. I would prefer to lean more toward the victorious moments but I think time will really tell.
I can share with another mom some of the things that seem to be working for our family but it doesn’t mean it will work the same for another. May I never come across as knowing it all and here is my public apology if I have ever done that.
I guess what I am trying to really get at is that we need to look within and examine our own hearts and motives for the things we do as parents. We need to focus on our role as a parent and not be so quick to judge another or to steer them in what we may believe is the “right” direction.
Let’s face it, we sometimes get it wrong. We are learning just as much as our kids are learning. We weren’t born with an innate ability to know how to do everything perfectly. So we should cut ourselves some slack and other parents as well. Let’s remember this is not an easy job. But we have an incredible responsibility to give it all we’ve got.
Related Articles: