The Joy of Parenting: Reflecting on Cherished Memories
Parenting is a journey filled with unforgettable moments. Whether it's the excitement of receiving books every month, the early years of childhood, or the reveling in cherished traditions like Christmas, each moment shapes our memories. In this article, we will explore some of the most cherished memories from a parent's perspective and how these experiences can bring back a flood of fond recollections, regardless of the time passed.
Childhood Traditions
One of the most cherished memories from my childhood was the monthly subscription to books. At seven or eight years old, my sisters and I eagerly awaited the arrival of a new book each month. Once it arrived, we would take turns reading (book, keyword1) stories, sometimes even having Lori read to us from her bed.
These books were not just for reading but also for sharing. They brought us closer as siblings and created a bond that only grew stronger as we read together. The joy we derived from these books still resonates, and recently, I found a set of the exact books in a thrift store. The nostalgia hit me just as hard as it did the first time, and I shared these memories with my daughters.
Learning from Our Children
Parenting has taught me so much. Sometimes, all we need is a simple question to reveal profound wisdom. Reflecting back, one of the instances stands out, especially during Christmas. My children, Carrie, Beth, and their brother, at ages three, five, and seven respectively, taught me valuable lessons in a way only children can. On Christmas Eve, after reading the book “The Night Before Christmas”, the conversation shifted to the special magic of Santa Claus and the deeper meaning of Christmas:
“Mommy we have Christmas because it's Jesus’ birthday. He lives in heaven with His daddy now and He can't get birthday presents so He lets us give His presents to each other.”
— Carrie“But Mommy why does Santa come then?”
— Beth“Bethie Santa is like Jesus’ helper. He passes out the presents!”
— Carrie
These heartfelt words from my children filled me with pride and a renewed appreciation for the joy in giving. The memories of that Christmas are filled with laughter and the sight of my husband, our children using him as a mannequin during a playful1 game, make me smile even now.
Embracing Parenting as a Joyful Journey
Each year brings new memories that become cherished over time. Some of the "bests" in my memory bank are the countless moments that made parenting a joy rather than a mere responsibility. One of the most profound is the Christmas Eve moment where my daughter's profound insights about Jesus and the role of Santa brought a deeper understanding and a profound sense of joy.
As we navigate the ups and downs of parenting, it's important to hold onto these memories. They serve as a reminder that our children teach us more than we can ever teach them. Listening to them and embracing the uknown can lead to some of the most cherished and enlightening moments in our lives.
Conclusion
Parenting is not just about the daily chores or the tough moments. It's about the joy, the laughter, and the wisdom shared. These memories not only bring back smiles but also remind us of the importance of cherishing every moment spent with our children. Whether it's a set of beloved books from the past or a heartfelt conversation around Christmas, these memories are invaluable.