In June 2017 Amber and My life was dramatically altered! We were just licensed to be foster parents and we received that first call! We were about to welcome two kids into our home and had no idea what we were doing… or at least I didn’t. (Amber is an early childhood education veteran and has taught little ones for years) we didn’t get that 9 month head start to worry and wonder if we were going to be good temporary care givers.
Fast forward and we are now officially parents after adopting those two scared little kiddos who showed up that late June night. I have always been a people watcher, I look and observe and just have the wiring in my brain – so when we became parents I was keenly aware of all the strange judgmental looks when ever we did something that wasn’t approved!
The world has become so social media driven that people feel the need to comment on everything they see as if they are the authority on (insert any topic here).
Don’t get me wrong I have been that person casting shade on someone else and even stated “at least that’s not my kid.” But on my short journey into parenthood, I have realized that I still have no idea what I’m doing… and you know what?…That’s ok!
Kids don’t come with manuals because if they did they would be robots! Kids are unpredictable and I think we have all been blown away by things they have done! They say the most profound things and also do the most insane things! In all the ups and downs I wouldn’t trade any of it for a moment!
There are a few things I think we all need to here and they are as follows:
- You are exactly what your child needs
- You are your child’s favorite (even if they don’t always act excited to see you all the time.)
- You are your child’s hero – they are always watching!
- You are a great parent – one moment doesn’t define you as a parent!
- You don’t need to spend money to make a memory.
- Don’t worry about what others say or comment about – they obviously haven’t met your kid!
- You can let your kids have screen time and still be a good parent!
- If you don’t let your kid have screen time you’re still a good parent! (your kid may not always agree…)
- If you don’t keep up with the laundry your still a good parent
You see, we have to get passed this baseless judgmental phase we are in and start supporting each other! No one is standing in your weeds but you!
Remember: You are a good parent!
Familylife @ FirstChurch 