Parenthood

This week I've been thinking a lot about a time when I knew everything about parenting, children and discipline. I had all the answers and knew exactly why other people's children did what they did. Of course I'm talking about a time when I did not have children of my own. I've always said that my children are Heavenly Father's way of reminding me that I don't know everything. I sure wish I did, though. I think the thing I struggle with the most is the notion of agency. I tend to want to force my children to do things my way. I want to make all their choices for them. I'm slowly starting to realize that my job as a parent is to teach correct principles and then step back and allow them to act for themselves. The whole concept of choice and accountability has been taught to me my whole life through church, the scriptures, great parents, etc., it has just taken me awhile to catch on. I hope my children grow up to be decent human beings in spite of my parenting skills (or lack thereof). So, to Dude, Princess, Honey Bunch, and Megaman thank you for letting me be your mother and allowing me to learn right along with you. I'm a lucky, lucky mommy to have you for my kids.