Posted by Chris A. on April 19, 2002, at 15:46:25
In reply to Re: The Newest Babbler » Shar, posted by judy1 on April 19, 2002, at 12:18:30
Judy, alarm bells just went off in my head. Don't get hung up on making everything perfect for your children. It'll just add more stress to your life. I remember feeling like a bad Mother. It was not a good feeling. Then a pyschologist told me than 80% of parenting is just being there. I didn't have to be super Mom. What a relief, not that I haven't attmepted suicide since then. Perhaps taking care of ourselves is the best gift we can give to our children. Yes, I regret missing my youngest's first birthday. I was in the hospital for thirty days. She's sixteen now and a delight. The one that' been difficult is the 21 yo son who inheritied some of my genes. He at least has ADHD but is in denial about it. I am always praying that he doesn't develop bipolar. He's been in the USMC for almost three years now, and even though I love him immensely, I don't miss the constant conflict.
My girls are altruistic and top students, the eighteen year old is bent on pre-med, and if she keeps loving college and working like she always has, she will make it. Even if she changes course, I couldn't have asked anything better for her. Trials - and that can often involve an ill parent - can be instrumental in developing character, an under-valued necessity in our world. I do pray a lot for my children, and know I'm heard. You are a good Mother. Just keep loving on'em. Throw in a few hugs for me. Always remember, there are many children who have thrived on formula. I recall how sad I was when I had to quit nursing to go on ADs after the youngest was born. It was Good Friday, 1986. She probably has the highest IQ of the three, and a winning personality. So please don't fret - just be there.Blessings,
Chris A. (bragging on my kids)
poster:Chris A.
thread:3
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/2000/20020416/msgs/39.html