The same optimism that made me confident I could do just about anything.
Sure! I can save the world with a sociology degree.
Yes! I can raise a kid with a traumatic background despite having no parenting experience or even baby sitting background.
For the most part, my stubborn nature and love for change and challenge has actually made my choices successful. If not, the mistakes were educational.
This time though, I have realized hurtling through parenthood means failures impact Rose and me. Failing her, or screwing her up worries me.
So this weekend the fear came to a head as Rose attempted her first 5k through a mentoring program I enrolled her in.*
Mike and I came to cheer her on, and when we arrived she was hell bent on not running, and her mentor was pleading with her. So I played tough love to their begging, which awarded me a few questionable looks from mentor. That made me wonder if a home grown kid's mom would let her opt out. I pushed that thought aside, and somehow between all ofit she agreed to walk it.
It took her an hour, but still, she finished it. Plus, she wants to do more of them. So win and win. While I continue to struggle with what a "real parent" would do and the continued clash of younger Amy optimism, I realize being firm and nurturing is possible.
Not sure Rose agreed as we headed off for a one-mile run today.
Now I have learned to stick to my guns and not be swayed by emotion.
2 comments:
A "home grown kid" (as you call it) at least one from our household, would not be allowed to opt out of it. If they are registered and previously agreed to do something, they will follow through.....even if they had to walk it. In my opinion it not only builds character, but a sense of pride in finishing a goal and following up on a commitment.
And I believe you ARE a "real parent"!!! (Not sure what you meant by that.) And you're doing a great job. Not everyone would handle the challenges you face, with the same amount of patience, grace and humor. Sure you may lose it from time to time, but we ALL do. Ask my kids about the meltdown on the road trip to Nashville, or numerous other occasions I've forgotten, but I'm sure they haven't and could recall, on demand, with frightening detail. It's not always easy.....in fact, it's usually not. It's hard and messy and painful and challenging. But everyday is a new opportunity and we all march on. :)
Okay, I don't know much about being a parent but I do know family. The fact that you think about everything and show concern, joy, and every other emotion in different situations for both you and your daughter are in shows how much you love you her. That proves that you are a great parent and a great family.
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