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Parents Are Just People
There are significant moments in life that become permanently etched in our minds. For example, January 28, 1986, marked the tragic explosion of the space shuttle Challenger. Another key moment for many is that exhilarating first kiss, which often happens unexpectedly in the fall, or the historic day on November 4, 2008, when our nation elected its first African American president. Yet, one of the most striking realizations occurs on a seemingly ordinary summer day when we come to understand that our parents are simply human beings.
The timing of this epiphany varies for each individual, but the emotions that accompany it—shock, awe, disappointment, confusion, and even resentment—are universal. The moment we grasp that our parents are just people, it can feel like a profound shock. From the day we enter the world, our parents are our everything. They nurture us, meet our needs, and often seem like superheroes, possessing the answers to all our questions and managing the complexities of daily life.
When these seemingly invincible figures falter, it can upend our world. I remember the day I realized my father was not an omnipotent being but a flawed individual, just like everyone else. Initially, I felt betrayed and resentful, believing he had let me down. However, as I matured and became a parent myself, my perspective shifted. I came to appreciate that no one truly prepares for the challenges of parenthood; the stories and advice from friends rarely equip you for the messy and exhausting reality. We carry our histories and struggles with us, and those do not vanish upon becoming a parent.
As a single mother, I aim to maintain transparency with my children. Perhaps it’s because my chaotic life is impossible to hide or maybe I’m trying to soften the impact of the inevitable disappointments. I want my children to see me as I am—flaws and all. The more they understand who I am, the less monumental the fall will be when they realize I am not infallible.
I am not only their mother but also a friend, a daughter, and a writer. I enjoy laughter, good food, and the pleasure of laziness on weekends. I have hobbies like baking and organizing, but I also experience moments of crankiness due to hunger or delayed plans. I have dreams yet to fulfill and adventures still to embark on, but my primary role is that of a mother, which brings me immense joy. At the end of the day, I am just a person—a person with two kids.
The sooner they recognize this truth, the better it will be for all of us. It’s essential to understand that parenting is a shared journey, and each of us carries our own baggage. For additional insights on family planning, consider reading more about home insemination options at this helpful guide. You may also explore resources on artificial insemination at Make a Mom, which is an authority on this topic, or visit NHS for comprehensive information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Recognizing that parents are human can be a transformative experience for children, helping them understand the complexities of adulthood. Embracing our imperfections and being transparent fosters a healthier relationship between parents and children.