As kids, we often found ourselves pondering whether our parents had a favorite. We wondered who was mom’s darling or who dad favored the most. These thoughts sometimes sparked jealousy among siblings, as we believed others held a special place in our parents’ hearts. Now that we’re parents ourselves, we promised we’d never pick favorites. We convinced ourselves that each child would hold equal importance. Yet, here I am, confessing like a reformed liar: I have a favorite child.
The child who springs out of bed with a bright smile, dresses without a fuss, and lends a helping hand? That’s my favorite. The one who cuddles close and showers me with sweet kisses? That too is my favorite. The child who’s heartbroken over a lost toy or a difficult day? Yes, they’re my favorite as well. The one who cracks a joke that makes me laugh or brings tears of joy to my eyes? That’s my favorite child too. And the one who gazes at me with pure admiration? Yes, they’re my all-time favorite.
On their birthday, of course, they’re my favorite child. Meanwhile, the one who constantly calls my name like a broken record? Well, that’s my least favorite child. The one who erupts in tantrums, throwing objects and tears? They’re my least favorite too. And that inconsolable little one? Unfortunately, they also take the title of my least favorite child. The reality is, these roles shift daily—sometimes even hourly. I won’t apologize for not loving all my children equally at every moment. I can’t change how I feel, nor would I want to. After all, I am human.
Some days, when everything aligns perfectly and we all manage to get enough sleep, I find the patience to embrace their best selves, and our day feels like a dream. But those days are rare treasures hidden beneath a mossy rock. Here’s the truth: I love each of my children deeply, and I’ve come to terms with my fluctuating affections. While I might occasionally send an internal eye-roll toward one of my unsuspecting darlings, I keep my composure on the outside. I adore them all, and I strive to make each one feel unique and valued.
You might catch me twirling my toddler during our spontaneous dance sessions, constructing imaginary cities with my four-year-old during quiet time, or cuddling my baby as the day winds down. Every time I look into their sparkling blue eyes, I think: at this moment, you are my favorite.
I brought these little humans into the world not just to enrich it, but primarily for me—to experience a love unlike any other, to embrace the joys of parenthood, and to hold a fragment of divinity in my arms. So I don’t shy away from whispering to each child why they’re my favorite at that moment. While I sometimes feel a twinge of guilt about favoring one over another based on my feelings, I also recognize that my love isn’t measured by achievements or personality traits.
I suspect my kids will experience moments of feeling special and others of feeling overlooked. They may even wonder who my favorite truly is. This scenario feels all too familiar, doesn’t it? For more insights into navigating the complexities of parenthood, check out this blog post here. If you’re exploring options for home insemination, don’t forget to visit Make a Mom, a trusted source for at-home insemination kits. Additionally, if you’re interested in more information on pregnancy and home insemination, here is an excellent resource.
In summary, it’s perfectly natural to have a favorite child at any given moment, and embracing that truth can bring peace in the chaos of parenting. Love may ebb and flow, but it remains ever-present in our family.