10 Comments
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Prajna O'Hara's avatar

I love all of this. Our children need to see us fowling.

Well done I remember a very long time ago being concerned that my little three-year-old at the time saw me and her dad have a brutal fight, not physical, but with words. I was loudest and I dropped her off at preschool and I had a moment to speak to her, her teacher , and she said, “the best thing you can do is to let her see how you try to make up.”

That is always stayed with me in everything because before I became a parent, of course I thought I knew everything. Lol parenting is the hardest job in the world and most humbling - muscle building, unpredictable, never ending, exciting and essential job in the world. Thank you for this wonderful essay.

Erin Miller's avatar

Prajna, this so well said and I love that example. Conflict is inevitable and sometimes necessary, so teaching our kids how to engage in it and how to resolve it is the key. I feel the same way about 'quitting.' There are times in life when the best answer is to walk away. So knowing when and how to quit is helpful.

Prajna O'Hara's avatar

Yes perfect I’m a good quitter and I might be even better at joining. Thank you.

Jess Greenwood's avatar

I want to tattoo "Content with my Trying" on my freaking forehead, so I see it every single time I look in the mirror. I did just write it on a sticky and put it on the roll up part of my desk, so every time I open it, I will be reminded. Thank you for the gift of that one line, and for the magnitude of all that's contained in this piece.

Erin Miller's avatar

This is such a thoughtful compliment—thank you so much! 🧡

Jess Greenwood's avatar

The thanks all goes to you on this one. 😉 That line will be rolling around my noodle for many days to come.

Gail's avatar

Fabulous post, Erin. Good for all of us, children or no children, to remember.

Erin Miller's avatar

And to surround ourselves with friends who are like family to remind us when we forget. I'm grateful for you, Gail!

Cinnamon's avatar

I loved this Erin. Makes me wish I could go back and be real for my boys. Thank you!

Erin Miller's avatar

Thanks for your kind words, and I hope you’re gentle with yourself.