Today's Quote

“As parents, we should remember that our lives may be the book from the family library which the children most treasure. Are our examples worthy of emulation? Do we live in such a way that a son or a daughter may say, ‘I want to follow my dad,’ or ‘I want to be like my mother’? Unlike the book on the library shelf, the covers of which shield its contents, our lives cannot be closed. Parents, we truly are an open book in the library of learning of our homes.” Thomas S Monson

Thursday, March 11, 2010

The way we love

Something I've noticed in life is that it is common to see "love" triangles. And I don't mean just romantic love triangles. It's common to see a situation where person A wants person B's affection. But person B wants to give person C that affection, or wants the affection from person C vs. person A.

A child might desparately seek their Mother's affection, for example. But that mother is more focused on giving that affection to or recieving affection from another child.

It's a hard scenario. And one I am glad that I have become wise to while my Children are still young. This way I can be aware of the tendancies.... because I believe it's unfortunately "natural" in a lot of situations. And I have seen it in my own circles of Friends and Family.

I've notice Elizabeth and Abby are constantly pushing me for my affection. And I love them both dearly. But sometimes it is easier for me to show that affection to Elysia or Jacob. So armed with this awareness, and knowledge, I am able to step back and give Elizabeth or Abby what they are needing from me. I hope that all of my children can find a fulfillment in my love for them and not feel unsatisfied and need to search other places to fill that place.

That is one of my goals as I parent. To be what they need, rather than what I want to give them. Their needs are there for a reason, and I need to step up and be equal to the challenge.

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