Updated: November 22, 2017
Originally Published: Dec. 3, 2012
I used to embrace life with a carefree spirit, never really considering the risks or dangers around me. The concept of fear? I would joke about it. Fear? Goodbye!
And then everything changed… I became a parent.
The moment I realized I was responsible for another person’s life—forever—was when The Fear first settled in. There’s a saying that when you give birth, your heart starts walking outside your body. Outside your body? It’s like being cast in a never-ending horror film. The thought terrifies me.
In those early days, I was consumed by The Fear of harming my newborn. I genuinely worried that something as simple as cuddling or changing a diaper could lead to disaster. And don’t even get me started on my postpartum body—was there anything scarier?
As my kids grow, The Fear shifts and evolves, often catching me off guard. Each milestone brings its own set of anxieties, like whether I’m doing everything right, if I’m failing them, or if I’m not providing enough for them to thrive. Oh, and let’s not forget about lice—always lice!
I stress about my kids’ sleep habits; when they finally doze off, I find myself checking to see if they’re still breathing. I take them to fireworks displays, hoping to create joyful memories, but I end up worrying that a rocket might head straight for them. A family trip to the beach becomes a source of dread due to the risk of drowning. Essentially, all the activities I once enjoyed now fill me with trepidation.
Just when I think I’ve conquered The Fear, it reemerges, bigger and more formidable than before, often with a twisted sense of humor.
Activities I once loved—like roller coasters and flying—now leave me anxious. I dread homework and avoid furniture with sharp edges. The news? I can’t bear to watch it, fearing something bad might happen to my kids—even if it’s a lighthearted story, like a kitten stuck in a tree. Tantrums? They send shivers down my spine.
I find myself worrying about a myriad of issues: illnesses, hangovers, the thought of being seen naked, bullying, encounters with strangers, privacy concerns, and the tumultuous teenage years. It’s almost comical because, as a parent, I strive to create a safe and fear-free environment for my children.
Yet, it appears I’m the one who’s truly terrified.
If you’re curious about navigating parenthood and all its challenges, you can check out other insightful articles like this one on home insemination here. And for those looking for expert advice on the journey to parenthood, visit Make a Mom for valuable resources. You can also explore CCRM IVF’s blog for more information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, becoming a parent transforms your perspective on fear. The responsibilities and worries multiply, but so do the moments of joy and love. While parenting may make you more anxious, it also deepens your capacity for caring and connection.