Moms and dads... our jobs are not finished when our children grow up. Much to the contrary of today's society beliefs.... we need to support our children even more as they grow older and their choices are much more complicated. That's not to say we need to enable them or coddle them. They must be allowed to make mistakes and live with those consequences. The struggle builds character, as long as they are taking responsibility for their choices. However, wouldn't it be nice to just provide a LITTLE break, once in a while? I'm taken aback by how rare it is that someone my age (53) would drop everything to support my family, both physically and mentally. We need to help our children, when they ask. Not to judge or tell them how to live, but provide some honest hard work, wisdom and just being there for them.
My parents were always there, if I ever needed them; although my pride ensured that I rarely asked. Just knowing they were there really helped me through some difficult times. So, now, it's my turn to help in any way I can. How lucky for me that I have such loving children who have married well and accept me into their homes as adults. I am relishing the time with the grand babies and also the precious moments with my adult children now. We have so much in common to talk about and so much with opposite opinions to keep things lively.
My daughter's Facebook post that said, "Mom moved in." is getting amazing responses from her friends. I was surprised at how many kids all wish their parents would help them out. Are we really too consumed with our own personal lives to not be able to lend a hand? What keeps us away? Is it really that important? I hope, if anyone reads this, that they will be inspired to look again at their actions and ask themselves if they are doing all they can to help their children, even as grown-ups.
