Favorites

Either life is getting less frustrating or I am getting better at dealing with the frustrations, but I certainly don't feel like I need this blog as much as I once did. Can you tell?

Having said that, here is one for you...

I have a guilty confession to make.  I know that parents should not have favorites when it comes to their children but I have to admit that right now that's a challenge for me.

Oh I don't REALLY have a favorite but I do have one who is far more challenging than the other. Maybe it's the age? Part of me hopes that's the case because then it will get better as she moves onto the next stage of childhood. But part of me hopes it's not just the age because then I will have to repeat my frustrations in a couple years from now.

I have occasionally referred to her as my 6 year old teenager and I cringe every time I catch myself doing so. I am a strong believer in children becoming what you say they will become.  Believe me on this: she does not lack kind and encouraging words from those around her, including from me.

But I almost think that's part of the problem. It might be possible to be TOO kind and encouraging.  I wonder sometimes if she feels entitled. She acts as though people will love her no matter what she does.  Think about that for just a moment and I am sure it is easy for you to see both sides of that coin. Is it a good thing that she knows she is unconditionally loved?  Yes, without a doubt.   Is it a bad thing? Yes, I believe so.

Finding that balance between giving a child natural consequences and putting them down is a difficult balance to find. Likewise, giving a child self confidence and self esteem without risking them becoming arrogant, snotty or simply entitled, well that is definitely easier said than done.

We have our good days and our bad days, as I am sure any family does, but when moments like this arise I find myself ever so grateful that she's not an only child.  Not just for my sake but also hers.