They come into our world as “sponges” and throughout the next 22+ years they gain knowledge and understanding of who they are, what they want to be, and where they want to leave their impression in this world. It takes time to grow up, and time to figure out where you want to land. The question is, “Will it be a smooth or rough landing?”
With as many kids as we have in our blended family, they are all in various life stages; we know there will be changes in theirs, and our lives, for many years to come. Our oldest has been out of college now for more than 3 years and has now made a big move to take hold of his future. He is a very diligent and a wonderful kid (sorry, he’s still my son) but what’s most important is he has done what every parent looks for as they grow up---the move toward independence. Although he has been independent since leaving for college, a few weeks ago he started a job that is going to help guide his future on a number of different fronts. From professional to social, this change is the best thing he could have done for himself.
Our oldest daughter is in the process of determining her future; as her college years are nearing their end, she is truly “looking for her place to land.” Having “smartly” majored in business---and minored in music---she is preparing for her next step as a professional businessperson. But, knowing what to do, and where to land is a delicate decision. As I have explained to her, at least I hope I have, it’s okay to follow your heart and do what you think is the right decision. The good news is, you can always make what I call a “left hand turn” if things don’t go as planned. In other words you don’t have to remain on the same path should life require some adjustments along the way.
As a parent we all want our kids to do as well or better than we have done. However, there are some parents that place their children on “the” impossible pedestal in life---I am not referring to this---we just want our kids to do well and be happy with their decisions. As far as the parents who push their kids too hard---we all know people who have these traits.
My pride for my children is based upon what they have done to make their lives better; my son is a much better writer than I will ever be, my oldest daughter can carry a tune (we have addressed my lack of singing ability in a previous Snap. Shot.) and our other daughters are athletic, smart, artistic, and gifted in other areas. What’s interesting is I have a genetic deficiency where they excel. What’s best about each one of their individual talents is they are learning what they are good at and what their futures could very well entail.
The photo above was taken in South Padre, Texas. I had never been close to pelican, they are huge; as I stood on a pier, and watched the setting sun all I could see was this bird looking for a place to land. Funny how we all need to find our paths in life.
Thanks for stopping by.
Jason has been independant since graduating college-100% financially despite being in a low-paying field-Journalism. He is outstanding at what he does, and is moving up the ladder professionally from a print reporter/blogger-(best political blogger in
ReplyDeletestate of Missouri-named by the KC Chronicle) to a web editor. He doubled his income. Just goes to show you how talent and passion can go along way! In his new location, St. Louis, he visits his grandfather every week. This illustrates his compassionate side. Noone tells him to do it-he just know the right thing to do. I sound like a proud mother and I am. He has also hit adversity in his short career and overcome his obstacles through talent and his gifts. He will be a tough act to follow, but something important in his foundation, his upbringing, appears to have helped him overcome adversity.