My kids.
They have changed me in ways I wouldn’t have imagined possible.
The giggles don’t diminish the tiredness.
Sleep-deprived eyes can still acknowledge and appreciate the beauty of a toothless grin.
Those were some of the subtle lessons their presence in my life imparted.
They made me vulnerable. They taught me vulnerability without breaking me down. They made me realize that vulnerability, after all, is not a sign of weakness.
Those were some of the bigger lessons I learned through them.
My kids also taught me how hypocritical I can be. It’s a challenge when you realize that you dislike the way you behave even more than you dislike being called out for it.
It’s humbling when I say sorry to my kids.
When my firstborn was born, I used to think that being a parent was like being under surveillance 24/7. He imitated everything I said and did.
Sixteen years later, I still feel the same—like I am under full-time surveillance. Although no one is copying my every action and word anymore, I know I am seen and heard long enough to be caught when I slip up.
Granted, they don’t always make me feel like I am being seen or heard.
But there are moments when I realize that I matter to them more than they let on during an ordinary day.
I told you, my boys are marvelous at giving me fresh perspectives and dramatic lessons, day after day.
It’s a good thing I like learning. 🙂
This piece is written in response to Write Bravely September Prompt –
Write about someone who has changed you — perhaps without ever knowing it. What did they teach you, give you, challenge you to see, or awaken in you?
Thank you, Corinne.
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