Intimate moments in a former foster youth's life after foster care, healing generational trauma and becoming a mother.
A Journey of Parenting: Reflecting on My Childhood and Embracing the Present
A Journey of Parenting: Reflecting on My Childhood and Embracing the Present

A Journey of Parenting: Reflecting on My Childhood and Embracing the Present


As I sit here, watching my son play, I reflect deeply on my current life. The role of a parent I now inhabit feels like uncharted territory, far removed from anything I’ve ever known. My gaze lingers on my son, and suddenly, I’m transported back to my own childhood. I remember sitting in our cozy living room, watching Eureka’s Castle,” “David the Gnome,” and “The Noozles.” My heart swells with joy and nostalgia as I recall those simpler times.

Toddlerhood was a time of innocence. I remember my mother vividly—her vibrancy, her attentiveness, and the profound love she radiated when she was present. Her presence was a beacon of warmth and security. Unfortunately, that idyllic period was all too brief. Yet, those fleeting moments of pure, unconditional love left an indelible mark on my soul. I vowed that my son would never know such brevity of parental affection. He would never have to wonder if he was loved enough.

Experiencing the world through the eyes of my child is akin to getting a second chance at life. It’s one of the most beautiful feelings I’ve ever known. This love is the purest form I’ve ever experienced. My heart overflows with gratitude for being chosen to be his mother and my husbands wife. This life we’ve built together is beautiful and amazing, filling my heart with a sense of safety and fulfillment I’ve never felt before.

Children view their parents as the center of the universe, craving their constant attention. This attention is how they understand and interpret love. I strive to be present and attentive, ensuring my son feels seen, heard, and deeply loved. This is the essence of parenting: being there wholeheartedly and unconditionally.

Reflecting on my childhood, I realize how crucial those early years were in shaping my understanding of love and attention. Watching “Eureeka’s Castle,” I wasn’t just entertained; I was in a space where everything felt right. It was a time when my mother was most present, showering me with love and attention. Her vibrancy and attentiveness were the foundations of my sense of security.

These memories are precious to me, not just because they were happy times but because they were formative. They taught me what it means to be a present and loving parent. They showed me the importance of creating a nurturing environment where a child feels loved unconditionally.

Parenthood has given me a unique perspective on life. Watching my son discover the world, his eyes wide with wonder, reminds me of the beauty and wonder that exists in everyday moments. It’s like reliving my own childhood but with the wisdom and appreciation that comes with age.

Every milestone, every laugh, and every tear is a precious gift. They are reminders of the incredible journey we are on together. The pure, unfiltered joy my son brings into our lives is unparalleled. It’s a reminder of the simple yet profound beauty of life, seen through the innocent eyes of a child.

Understanding that children see their parents as the center of their universe has been a crucial realization for me. This perspective shapes how I approach parenting. I strive to be present and attentive, knowing that this is how my son experiences love.

Providing this attention isn’t always easy, but it’s essential. It’s in the moments of undivided attention that a child feels valued and loved. These moments are the building blocks of their self-esteem and emotional well-being. By being there for my son, I’m not just showing him love; I’m teaching him how to love himself and others.

As I navigate the complexities of parenting, I am constantly reminded of the fleeting nature of time. My son’s childhood is a precious, fleeting period that will pass all too quickly. I am determined to make the most of it, to be fully present, and to shower him with the love and attention he deserves.

This commitment to being a loving and attentive parent is not just for his benefit; it’s also for mine. It allows me to heal from the brevity of my idyllic childhood to create new memories filled with joy and love. It’s a way of honoring my mother’s legacy by passing on the love she gave me when she could, to the next generation.

In this journey of parenthood, I have discovered a depth of love and gratitude I never knew existed. I am thankful for the opportunity to be my son’s mother, to experience the world through his eyes, and to create a loving and nurturing environment for him to grow in.

Life is beautiful and amazing, filled with moments of pure joy and deep love. My heart feels the safest it has ever felt, surrounded by the love of my family. This journey is not without its challenges, but it is a journey I wouldn’t trade for anything.

In the end, it’s the love and attention we give to our children that genuinely matters. It’s what they will remember, and it’s what will shape who they become. As I continue this journey, I am committed to being the best parent I can be, to loving my son unconditionally, and to cherishing every moment we have together.

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