Only A Parent Would Know

Man. Being a parent is a rough job. But what would I know? I'm not a parent? Yeah I certainly am not (unless you count my pets as kids like I do.) Although I am finally realizing why our parents make the decisions that they do. Sometimes I question my parents or other parents on their choices and decisions but when it comes to their kids, I have gained the "wisdom of the witness". Being a parent has to be the hardest title to hold on a pair of shoulders. Because unlike an actual career, a parent is always being watched. Watched by their children, watched by their neighbors, watched by their friends, and even other parents. A parent wants to be viewed as: responsible, disciplined, proud, strong, successful, and wise. But I feel that those words create a huge amount of pressure of a parent. Pressure that stresses them out, scares them, and ultimately makes them feel like a failure. Being a parent means you worry. You worry about the safety, comfort, and happiness of your children. Being a parent means stress. A parent stresses constantly about finances, jobs, vehicles, bills, relationships, and time. It is hard for parents to find good quality time for themselves. Even when they have older children, they tend to find more things to throw on their plate like work or other commitments . A parent truly never gets a break. Because once a parent, always a parent. Although, a parent can choose what direction their life goes in as well as their children's. I know that it's hard to feel like you are always making the right decision for your kids, and for yourself. Because you always put your kids first. Even though your daughter may not believe you are doing what is right for her when it comes to a boyfriend. Or when your son wants to borrow your really nice car and then gets in an accident. Or even when your kids are constantly away from home and all you want them to do is stay home with you for the night. It seems like your children always resent you or are mad at you. Believe me, at the younger ages (we really are mad!) But when they grow up and begin to experience some of the things you do as a parent, trust me. They will start to appreciate the things you have to do. They may never admit it and they may never thank you for everything you have done. But if they were raised by parents who always put them first, and loved them with everything they have, they will love you more than ever. As a daughter who recently became an actual adult quickly, I can now appreciate all the things my parents do and what they have done for me. So parents, don't be discouraged if you feel that you have not done all you can for your kids. Because you have. They will realize soon enough that you have done all you can. Just enjoy the moments of their childhood, or enjoy the moments of them growing up and experiencing new things. Being a parent, is most likely the most rewarding job a person can have. Thank you parents out there for raising children who will become successful, happy, and strong human beings. You will always be appreciated.