Monday, October 18, 2010

Do They Know?

After last week’s discussion about encouraging—rather than discouraging—our children in their creative efforts, I started to wonder. Do my kids know how much faith I have in them? Do they truly understand what they can do if they really commit themselves?

My kids aren’t little anymore. In fact, they’re on the cusp of adulthood. As they make this transition, will they spread their wings and take off? Or will they burrow into a hole and be afraid of the desires of their hearts?

Granted, most of us end up somewhere in the middle and walk into adulthood on legs—and there’s nothing wrong with that. But I have to wonder. If we knew—really, truly knew—our own potential when we were teens, would we have chosen to walk? Or would we have run? Or maybe found wings?

I don’t know the answer to that particular what if, and I have no regrets. I love where I am in life. But I wonder about my kids. Do they know what they can do?

I don’t know for sure one way or another. But I can help them realize their potential. I can help them find the things they love most in life and excel at them.

I—their mother—have the power to give my children the ability to fly. I just have to remember to use it.

So there you have it. This week’s profound parenting thought.

*Don’t forget to stop by my book review blog and see my review of a fab new book, Perilous by Tamara Heart Heiner and enter to win one of several fantabulous prizes, including a Kindle!

9 comments:

Christine Fonseca said...

My kids and I actually talk about this stuff all the time. I think the kind of self-knowing you talk about comes with age...but confidence - that's something we can certainly help to instill in our kiddos. Great post!

Windy Aphayrath said...

But I don't want to let them fly!!! I want to keep them 5 years old and in my nest FOREVER!!!

Anonymous said...

This is one of my biggest fears. I want to help them fly but I have such self-esteem issues that I worry I don't have the ability to teach them what I "don't know." I try, though. And I'll never give up.

lotusgirl said...

What a great thought. I strive to help my kids reach their full potential.

Jodi Orgill Brown said...

Wow, that was beautiful! Can I have your permission to repost it on my blog? I will also include the link to your blog. I loved it, and it is just what I needed to hear today. Thanks! Love you.

Stacy Henrie said...

I like to think as moms/writers were showing our kids that we can do hard stuff - we can struggle and reach those dreams - and therefore they can too.

Carolyn V. said...

Excellent post Nichole! I think our teens don't always know their potential. I hope I'm doing all I can to let my kids know for themselves. =)

Angie said...

This is really on my mind lately. My oldest will graduate this year. I can't help wondering if I've done my best for him. Parenting is scary business!

kbrebes said...

Good Thoughts, Nichole. I love the pretty, fall leaves.