A Privilege

I spend a lot of time thinking about what kind of relationship I will have with Iyla when she is grown up.

It is so important to me that she always feels like she can come to me with her problems, that she knows I will always be there for her and that we can have fun and enjoy each other’s company.

I have been very aware from day one that this isn’t something I can just expect to happen. It’s not just a given that you can have an amazing relationship with your kids when they are grown up.

It’s a reward that comes from the amount of effort and hard work you put in when they are growing up.

It’s easy to take for granted the fact that your kids will always love you but just because they love you, it doesn’t mean they have to like, respect or trust you.

You have to earn their trust and respect like you would with anyone else in life.

For me, this is what makes being a parent such a huge responsibility.

Sometimes I worry about it and question whether I am doing a good enough job. I’m not perfect but then again, I don’t think anyone is. We make mistakes but as long as we keep trying then I guess that’s all that matters.

Some days being a parent is incredibly challenging and other days it’s a walk in the park but no matter how good or bad things are, knowing that your child loves you is a privilege and one that I feel grateful for every day.