My parents entered parenthood in the 1970s, embracing a lifestyle filled with health-oriented practices that often echoed the sentiments of the hippie era. My father, a chiropractor, championed holistic living long before it became a buzzword. Now that my son is 2, I find myself navigating the challenges of parenthood, yet I feel I fall short of the ideals my parents embodied.
I often wonder: Is it easier to embrace organic living today, with the rise of health-food supermarkets like Whole Foods, or was it simpler back in the ’70s and ’80s when life moved at a slower pace with fewer distractions (yes, I’m looking at you, social media)? What I do know is that my parents were practically holistic champions while I, in contrast, am quite lackadaisical. Perhaps it’s natural for us to diverge from our parents’ values—and maybe that’s perfectly fine.
1. Gardening
My parents cultivated a sprawling garden that produced everything from tomatoes to rhubarb, and they were dedicated to the art of canning. I might be exaggerating, but it felt like they had an entire acre of produce to manage. They used a tractor for watering and harvesting while my mother tirelessly canned their harvests and even vacuum-sealed them for storage. In contrast, I once tried to grow parsley in a pot, which quickly withered away, leading me to abandon the idea altogether. The truth is, the effort my parents put into their garden seemed overwhelming to me. Now, I rely on the local grocery store for produce, often opting for non-organic varieties simply because they’re more accessible. Sorry, Mom and Dad.
2. Vaccination Decisions
My parents opted out of vaccinating my brother and me out of distrust for the medical establishment, long before it became a contentious issue. I respect their choice, but navigating the education system without vaccinations was a constant uphill battle. My husband and I wrestled with this decision, ultimately choosing to vaccinate our son for various medical and social reasons. Initially, we tried to space out his shots, but that resulted in more doctor visits, which meant more co-pays and more exposure to germs. We now follow the standard vaccination schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, just like most families in this country. Sorry, Mom and Dad.
3. Dietary Choices
My parents made processed sugar feel taboo. Our breakfasts consisted of shredded wheat, sweetened minimally with honey, and desserts were primarily fruit. I distinctly remember the thrill of drinking 7UP on New Year’s Eve, a rare treat that felt like a celebration. Fast forward to college, and I found myself indulging in Oreo ice cream and late-night snacks of Oreos, leading to a classic freshman weight gain. To prevent my son from developing an unhealthy obsession with sweets, I allow him Cheerios, birthday cupcakes, and even the occasional juice box. Sorry, Mom and Dad.
4. Milk Alternatives
My parents believed cow’s milk wasn’t suitable for humans, opting for rice milk instead. This was especially unusual in Wisconsin, known for its dairy production. After breastfeeding, I followed suit until I realized rice milk’s high sugar content contradicted my upbringing. Now, despite my discomfort, I’ve introduced cow’s milk to my son’s diet. Sorry, Mom and Dad.
I genuinely appreciate the strong foundation my parents provided. They instilled in me the importance of being mindful about what I consume and what I feed my child. However, I recognize that many children thrive without the luxury of organic foods, and they seem to be just fine—free from the guilt that often accompanies organic living.
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In summary, while I may not live up to my parents’ ideals of holistic living, I’m learning to carve my own path in parenting, balancing health consciousness with the realities of modern life.