In the heat of the moment I may be witty, and have lots to say. It may be cathartic to dump my thought, to air them out. Alas, there is purpose in writing. I hope to look m back and glean the truth, have an authentic perspective over how things were, and how it happened. The good and the hard. I’m writing for my daughters. So over years, as we look back to things long forgotten, healed, forgiven, left behind, to honor the truth of our journey together, the small decision, the dificultate ones, the ones that were brought into existence by a thread of values and no other validation from the world. I see things differently than many other parents. But as I don’t have a strong opinion or experience on a slew of circumstances, I’m learning to hold my ground on the ones I do have an opinion. Be gentle and firm. Be the captain of my ship. Stay calm in the storm but hold on tight to the wheel.

I give chances. Chances of hope. With reason and explanations. It’s tempting to say “I’ve tried this path. It didn’t work” but as parents we’re in the business of chances and respecting ourselves. Slightly changing the words, the tone, try it differently but don’t be afraid to push forward in the direction you know is right. Also, intuition plays an important role. Learn to hear your inner sense of right and wrong. Your gut. And always assure them of your love no matter what. Don’t spend time on a high horse. Climb down and walk the path with them.

I love my kids. Sometimes I like them too. They occasionally annoy me, and they exhaust me. But I’m committed to pour life into them and show them the way. I’m committed to adapt and grow as well. To apologize when I err, to be clear in my message always. Don’t mumble into fudging your way out of a difficult situation. Own it.

Ah, moms, we are leaders through and through. To our kids. And we get to practice leadership day in and day out.