Reflecting on Motherhood: The Art of Giving Roots and Wings.

It’s amazing how our parenting style has changed over the years. The saying, 'Spare the rod and spoil the child,' does not work anymore. We now focus on communication, as the former approach can breed resentment amd anger.

“Raise your words, not your voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.” – Rumi

Several days ago, I watched my youngest son from the window as he ran towards a friend's place. If that had been several years ago, I would have screamed his name and asked him where he was going. But I waited, and after two days, in a fairly relaxed manner, I asked him what that quick visit was all about. The idea of being a strict parent with rules of "do's and don’ts" does not work well and does not stand the test of time. As kids grow, the relationship they have with you as parents changes. Communication should be both ways and done at the right time. Motherhood is art, practice makes better.

“When little people are overwhelmed by big emotions, it’s our job to calm our own, not join the chaos.” – L.R. Knost

The challenges they face today are different from what we went through. There is so much information out there; Internet, social media, and just too much stimulation. The home should be a safe haven where emotions can be shared without fear or judgment, and support can be provided without criticism.

Encourage them to express their feelings and speak even if their voice shakes. Bottled emotions will lead to outbursts in other areas that may not be directly related to the original feelings, ultimately causing more harm than good. It’s important to create a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment.

Children are God's way of letting us know His work will continue, even after we’re gone.” – J.W. Lord

For your child to capture their dreams, they need to be allowed to soar free. We spend years giving them roots and a foundation; we just need to allow them to fly with their wings.

This is the hardest part for me, watching them try to figure things out and make their own mistakes but it’s part of the process. We must trust that they will be fine.😊