[warning: mostly irony-free post]
The “worst year” has officially passed. Though there’s another one ahead soon for his brother.
There were definitely ups and downs this past year: times of indignation, sarcasm, defiance, distraction and–my favorite–plain, outright lying. But all things considered, it could have been a lot worse.
I find this period both rewarding and trying. I also find it such a crucial time to have conviction and to be present. It feels extraordinarily important to be a kind of pillar and stay focused on the kids’ development. It just seems like this is a time when they’re ready to stray and find new paths to follow. This is a good thing in general, but I want them to know that they’re supported and listened to. It feels like the most important thing as they transition to adulthood.
I’m not sure I ever would have realized this without experiencing it. I’ve always felt it was important to stay present and attuned and ready, but now more than ever.
I can’t quite explain it, but I keep coming up with these cheesy analogies, like being there to “right the ship” or “carry the weight” or “catch them when they fall” or…. That’s all I can think of (shakes the clichés off).
Good, solid dudes. Proud of them, even as they occasionally fall and fail.
Now I just have to prepare myself for them getting behind the wheel.
