Parenting Throwdown

Today was a parenting throwdown that started at 5:39 a.m. with a text, ran in and out the doors of many gyms, scored a few goals, committed no fouls, and made sure no one was thrown out of the game.

And I am exhausted.

It was easier on me when I was younger and when my kids were actually kids and not adults. Then, I let fly with whatever I was thinking. When one of my kids got in trouble, I had an immediate reaction. Delay, introspection, consideration — all stuff for the uncertain, people who didn’t know the right thing to do. Me, on the other hand, I always knew the right thing to do.

Today, I must have said ten times, “I don’t know the right thing to do.” So not knowing, I spent long periods silent, chose my words as if they’d be on a headstone for centuries, let my judgements sit on the back porch by themselves.

I was wise today. I wish I had been this wise when I was raising my kids. But nonetheless, I am wise enough to recognize wisdom when I see it. And cherish the thought that age has taught me to replace confidence with contemplation and certitude with doubt.

I played the long, good game. I’m glad.

One Comment on “Parenting Throwdown”

Teresa Cleveland Wendel
July 2, 2012

And cherish the thought that age has taught me to replace confidence with contemplation and certitude with doubt.
This, fellow writer, is one of the wisest thoughts I’ve ever read.

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