I have learned

that a hug is never wasted.

that you should not try to mold your children into something they are not or that is more convenient for you.

that I must learn to handle my own anger as I respond to my sons.

to check tire pressure every month.

that sometimes your children don't fulfill the expectations you have for your life, heal your wounds, nor undo the damage done to you by the people who were supposed to love and protect you. but the truth is that they probably are the best thing that ever happened to you.

to say I'm sorry.

that you cannot build a strong, positive self-esteem on unspoken guilt, shame and what others might think of you.

that you can always learn from the experiences of others. and from your mother's mistakes.

Comments

[Corey]

Fabulous, Irene! The deeper you dig, the more we see you!

[love squalor]

this brought tears to my eyes. beautiful Irene! may we all learn these lessons and teach them to our children.

[Chris]

I always gain insight when I read your words - into you, and into me.

[paintergirl]

Always lovely and so well spoken. Hugs are never wasted is my favorite.

[Waya]

When I look at my middle son, I see me staring back. I know how my Mom had to "deal" with me when I was young, Stubborn to a fault, and that's what he is and I feel really bad for my Mom.

[Salvina]

how true - thank you for the beautiful words - I'm gonna sit down and write down what I have learned - and still learning - so far

[Heather C.]

Amen to that! It sounds like we are a lot alike Irene!

[Karen Maezen Miller]

Is it my failing eyes? Memory? Or did you change this between yesterday and today? If so, a wonderfully nuanced correction. When you change, you change the outcome, and forgiveness puts the critic to rest.

[la vie en rose]

well said!

[Sam]

I think hugs are the glue - and kind words, most of all. I hate sharp tones and mean voices - and Lord knows I spent a LOT of time talking to my brother in a mean voice. He still loves me, anyway. These are SUCH wise words - and surely our children don't fix anything but are instruments of healing? In some small (or big) way? I'll let you know in about a year. :)

[kristen]

I love you for keeping it real. Checking the tire pressure every month is a good thing and something I now do quite obsessively. xo

[bella]

All very good things Irene. The boys are their own little beings. They will be good boys because they have a wonderful and caring mom.
I threw everything I was taught by my mom out the window and started fresh with Angie. It's so hard, but take things day by day. Love you!

[C. Flicken]

Irene, you have such a gift for giving voice to the things (good or bad) we experience as parents and adults. Thanks for sharing that with us!

[Charmaine]

You are too cute. I love it.

[Mlle Smith]

Pretty, touching words...