Understanding the word 'No' is a rare occurance. Yet, this breed is more reselient, more intelligent, more savvy, more image conscious (should I say more worldly?). You see 'MORE'?
As always, parents work towards getting the best for themselves as well as the child. The differentiating factor being, now the child knows which is the 'in' thing and demands the same.Our parents set limits, disciplined us when necessary, lectured us frequently, taught us value of money, yelled at us often, yet loved us unconditionally.
Today as a parent, many of us do it in our own way. Some of the tough lessons we teach them are:
- Life is difficult, it won't always be easy. So learn to go through bad days, celebrate good days.
- All our decisions might not be likeable. We will definitely lisen to you, but you will not always get your way.
- Everyone contributes. No silent partnership here. ;-)
- Do odd jobs around the house, earn a little on the side and save it. We won't buy everything you ask for.
- We definitely are responsible for your well-being but YOU are responsible for your actions.
- To me, you are unique. I accept you with all your weaknesses, strengths, abilities, disappointments and dreams. Let me see your dream, use your uniqueness to achieve them and let me soar with you.
- Everything is not a crisis. Remember, laugh and the world laughs with you, cry and you cry alone.
- We know you have a mind of your own, opinions of your own. Give it time, you will get a chance to voice them to your kid(s). Hehehe.
Just remember that we love you more than anything. We set limits for you, discipline you, applaud your successes, get crushed with your pain at failures, cry with you when you are hurt and be with you when you look around for a friend.
The best gift we can give our parents is by becoming parents ourselves. (Hey Dad! I heard that snigger.)
-MH
