Becoming

Awww... I'm reposting this message here since it is so inspiring. Thank you so much, Erin!
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The task of becoming is one in which no one ever develops expertise. As a result it sometimes seems insane that we are allowed to bear and raise subsequent generations. Yet, somehow the complexity and enormity of the love we feel for our children makes knowing everything less important than learning what's important and letting go of everything else.
This morning with my knew arsenal of knowledge, three hours of sleep and the courage of my convictions my usually uncooperative three year old dressed, ate, cleaned up and with a little coaxing and a game of tickle monster put on her coat and went to school. Just before she left I said "Laney, thank you for helping out this morning. You are an important part of our family and in a family everyone make a contribution" to which she promptly replied "a contribution to your PBS station" and walked out the door. There was a time when my ego would have prevented me from admitting that I no longer had the skill set to deal with certain situations. I would have plugged along, on my own, in the futile search for answers. But an amazing thing happens when you become a parent your ego is suddenly smaller than your love for your child. In this end you go out admit defeat and do everything you can to obtain the skills necessary to ensure your part in helping your child to become the remarkable person they are meant to be. No matter what, there is no substitute for the sharing of experiences between people who embrace the same goal.
Everyone will ultimately find the path that works for them, and there are so many, but knowing that we are not alone in our journey is monumentally comforting. Thank you to Sarah, Tina and all of the MCC parents for providing a judgment free zone where we may all work toward mastering the task of becoming better parents and stronger people.

Happy Holidays best to you all in the coming year.
Erin Mahone (and Laney too)