The phrase “Parents are the world to a child” often crosses my mind these days. When my child comes over and tugs at my arm to play, or cries loudly after not getting what they want, I sometimes wonder whether I’ve neglected them because I’m tired or simply because I can’t be bothered. A child can only eat what parents give them, and they can only play within the boundaries parents provide. They can only discover new worlds and meet new friends through their parents. The more diligent I am, the more new and enjoyable experiences my child can have. I don’t know if I’ve ever had this much influence over someone else in my life.
Before I got married, I was skeptical about having children. I still believe that major life decisions should come after real deliberation and my own choice, and I wasn’t sure whether having children was really the right path for me. More honestly, I wasn’t confident I could bear the responsibilities and sacrifices that parenthood demands. I loved babies, but I also doubted that I would be good at being a parent. Even now I’m not sure I’m good at it, but I do believe having a child was the right choice. Life is beautiful and precious, and being able to pass the seed of that life on to a child, then stand beside it as it blooms, has been one of the most meaningful and joyful experiences of my life.
I often think back to my school days. Running around town with friends, experiencing all sorts of new things, meeting a girlfriend for the first time and texting her, transferring to a new school and making new friends. These are all precious experiences that can only be had during those shining teenage years. My child will have those times too. I hope there will be many things I can do to help them enjoy that period even more.