The Journey Inward

Love, what would you have me know today?

My sweet, I would have you remember that your children still need you. You have done an amazing job of raising independent girls who are self-sufficient and resourceful. They can handle most things that come their way with very little assistance from others.

But then there are those times when something unexpected happens and they struggle to deal with it because it hits them emotionally. It scares them or confuses them or upsets them or makes them feel inept. A tricky rental lease, a lost wallet left atop a car, a boyfriend who ghosts. And then they call you. Sometimes with tears. I’ve seen that little smile that dances at the corner of your lips as you talk through the problem with them, knowing from years of living that it is not as bad as it seems to them, and tickled pink that they have called you.

I also want to say how proud I am of you for affirming to your children that they are not the first to go through this struggle, nor will they be the last. You normalize the situation for them. You look to take away any feelings of shame. Through your words and tone, you invite them to call you as many times as they need to in the future. You have established a safe haven.

My sweet, you are relevant and important in the lives of your children. It took a lot for you to tell your parents when you made a mistake or got yourself into trouble. You are showing up differently and in the process you are reparenting yourself, as well.

Keep loving yourself and your children in this way. It is a gift.

Photo: Kingwood, NJ. 2008. By LA