Dear Kids,
I often wonder if you think of us like we thought of our parents. You probably do. My parents loved me but they didn’t say it much (or I didn’t hear it!). We want you to know how much we love you. Our love for you is so amazing and so deep that we can’t put words to it.
I have a feeling that if we asked you if you feel truly loved, you might say “Sure, my mom [dad] loves me but … ” While that might give us pause, I hope it will force us to step back and ask, “Can we show you our love in a better way?” Whether you become a mom or a dad, a step-parent or an adoptive parent, you will someday understand that the bond between a parent and child is the most incredible and awesome feeling.
Sometimes we are not fully present for you. We are filled with the days activities, what’s happening at home, things in your life, things in our life, etc. You will hear our frustration and sometimes anger with you about homework, doing chores and the choices you make. Please don’t think for a minute that changes our love for you.
As awkward as these things are, here are some ways that we show you our love:
1. We will write you notes and send text messages: When we do those things, see it as our way of connecting with you. Try to respond – even if it’s just an emoticon!
2. We will hug you — please let us: Hugging you reminds us of the days when you were little and you would hang on our necks and give us big wet kisses! I know it feels awkward but try to put up with it or at least pretend it’s ok!
3. Let us brag about you: We are so proud of all you do that we just want to tell the world how cool and wonderful you are. Try to keep the eye-rolling down when we put your pictures on FB and know that it’s all about how proud we are!
4. We will try to talk with you: We long to be included in your life. And, as you get older you will want to move apart from us. Try to keep us posted a little bit. You have no idea how good it feels when you share your thoughts with us.
5. We will try to include you in decisions: We sometimes forget that it is important to include you decisions and we will do a better job … maybe you can include us in some of yours too!
I could say so much about this thing called being a parent. It is the best and most difficult job of our lives. We may bitch and complain (and say we need a vacation!) but the truth is – we love every minute of it!
Have a fantastic day!
Love (your parents) mom.
theyearof50 