My babies started school last week. I guess that's really an oxymoron of a statement, since they are obviously no longer babies if they are in school. My oldest, Jaxen, is five and started kindergarten, while my daughter, Jalyn, age 4, started pre-k. Every morning I have taken them to school and guided them thru the cafeteria maze so that they can start their day with a full belly. I know it seems self-explanatory, but I believe that having your child well-rested and well-fed is the best way to make sure they enjoy their school day, especially when they are so young. Heck, I wilt halfway throughout the morning. I can't imagine how it is for a four year old.
Well, now that I'm off that tangent.... watching my children around this madhouse of kids has really put my brain into gear about parenting and what exactly my purpose is as a parent in specific. After much thought, I have come the following conclusions about my parenting goals:
1. I believe that it is my responsibility (and goal) to raise my children to be intelligent, hard-working, functioning members of society.
2. Even more importantly, I believe it is my duty to teach my children to be compassionate, loving people with a big heart. I want my children to love ALL people, regardless of their differences in religion, sexuality, etc. etc..
3. I also believe that it is my job as a parent to provide my children with a positive example of a family life. One of my favorite sayings states that the greatest gift a father can give his children is loving their mother. I agree with this one hundred percent (and vice versa of course) and want my children to grow in a loving home with a srong family base.
As I review what I've written, I'm aware that all of these things seem to be fairly obvious. But let me tell you, it's harder than it looks. Many a time have I called my best friend Heather in a moment of frustration, anger, or even extreme pride, and said, "I am SOOO not cut out for this!!". And I believe her response usually is, "Well, Jess, it's a little too late now. Can't really put 'em back in!". How true that is.
I've composed this blog though so that in those moments, I can look back at this entry and remind myself of what's important. Not the constant spills. Not the endless bedtime routines. Not the projectile vomit. Not the talking back. All that matters is love. Setting a good example. Hugging. Kissing. Listening. Guiding my offspring to the best of my ability to be the best person that I know how to teach them to be. And pray that it's enough in the grand scheme of things.
spinach and artichoke pan pizza
1 week ago
4 comments:
Great blog! And.....as I've previously told you in e-mails we exchanged the day before the kid's first day of school, your children won't be the kids who are laughing or making fun if someone drop their tray in the cafeteria. They'll be the ones to go and help. Your kids are on a great path. The simple fact that you're mindful of such things shows you'll be fine.
I'm not sure if I ever told you what my mom said the first time she met you....we were at Rib Crib, Jaxen was 1 and Jalyn was a few months old. We were driving away after you left and she said, "She sure loves those babies!" You know how I feel about my mom and her wisdom as a parent....so it's par for the course that I think a statement like that from my mom is a great endorsement.
I think the Beatles said it best: "All we need is love". By loving your children, you'll shape them into the young adults they're meant to be. Nothing happens by accident, and it's no accident that those children were given to you.
You're doing great little mama!
*Sniffle* I got a little teary eyed hearing that your mom said that. She's the best! As are you....thanks for the constant encouragement. It TRULY helps me make it thru the day sometimes!
Luv ya!
Such a nice post. You have wonderful priorities, and your children will reflect them. They will.
I have found too, all it takes is love, love, love. And lots of it, to weather anything and to be the base of it all. I'm sure you're seeing that too.
I admire you for what you say here. It is a testament to the kind of mother and person you are. :) Lucky kids.
Thanks, Miz Kathy-- I know you're right. It's just hard to remember sometimes when you see all the f'd up people in this world, and you think, 'OMG... what if my kids turn out like that???' LOL! It all comes down to the nature v nurture debate.... on which I FULLY rest on the nurture side.
Hugs RULE!
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