Venting….
I have been thinking about writing this post for a week. I
put it off because I was so emotional about the subject and wanted to write a
post with some thought, not just emotions. Lately, there has been so much in the
news regarding parenting and the structure and roles of moms. What bothered me
the most was reading and seeing mothers ripped each other apart because their
way was “better.” I just didn’t understand that. However, last week it hit me personally.
I had a sweet friend call me upset and heartbroken after finding out that the
mom’s in her play group were talking negatively about her kids and her
parenting. What was even more heartbreaking was that NOT one of these women have
ever talked to her about their thought nor have they ever offer any help to
her. Nice, huh? She is a good mom and a
sweet, loving person. Whose business is
it anyway how she disciplines her children? Now, if she abusing her children
that would be other people’s business, but she isn’t. I am so tired of the debating! We debate
about whether or not spanking is damaging to children, working mothers versus
SAHM, breast feeding, vaccines, only feeding our children food, how much TV our
children should watch, homeschooling, public vs. private schools, when a child should
be potty trained, how old is too old for a bottle and a pacifier…the debating
goes on and on. Maybe debating isn’t the right word, I appreciate an intelligent
debate, but often there is an attitude of righteousness . What is best is what
works for YOUR family, what helps you and your families grow and flourish. I
have made parenting mistakes; I have had to apologize
to Sarah. I have let her watch too much TV, let her drink coke, not discipline
her when I should of because I was too tired, I have wished I had a job and the
list goes on and on. Here is what I have done is love Sarah the best I
know how. I have sought out help when I needed it. I have confessed to Sarah
that I don’t know what to do. I am sure that someone has criticized my parenting!
When we returned home from China, I had a hard time adjusting. Most people didn’t’
know I was struggling. Why? Because I was afraid of being judged. I was afraid
that someone would day “Isn’t this you wanted?” Well, YES, it was and I still
want it, but sometimes it is HARD. Often it isn’t Sarah that is hard; it is my
own heart and attitude. In the last year, I have been some wonderful, loving
friends who I feel comfortable being open with and seeking advice from. I love
them and their families and know they want the VERY best for my family. Now, I would be lying if I said I never criticize
someone or even their parenting, but I know better now. Sarah taught me better.
You just never know what is going on with a family, maybe there is a special
need or problem that can’t be seen. Give other parents and children some grace.
They probably need it. I know I do!
So, what I want to say to my sweet friend’s critics is the
next time you feel the need to be so cruel by talking about people and
excluding them from play dates, SHUT UP and listen. Maybe the parents need help
or wisdom. Love them.
My sisters, give yourself and someone else some grace
today!!!