Like many in the country, recent events have left me feeling unsettled and anxious. With the news of a new president, I’ve been riding a rollercoaster of emotions—anger, fear, and a sense of vulnerability often all at once. My concern extends not just to my family but to the well-being of children everywhere in our wonderfully diverse nation.
I’ve found myself glued to the news, even in the wee hours, anxiously waking up in a sweat, hoping to shake off the feeling that I’m trapped in a nightmare. My social media scrolling has become compulsive, with me repeatedly exclaiming, “Can you believe he just said that?” as if I wasn’t already aware of the chaos unfolding.
In the midst of all this, I’ve noticed my patience with my children dwindling. I’ve been irritable and, frankly, not the mom I aspire to be. I could blame it on lack of sleep or the weight of my worries, but the truth is, there’s no excuse for being less present. While I don’t want to ignore my feelings, I realize I must not let my concerns about the world distract me from the crucial role of parenting.
It’s especially tough during such turbulent times, but our kids must remain our priority. They instinctively pick up on our worries, overhearing our conversations and absorbing the tension, even when we think they’re oblivious. If they’re in school, they might have heard unsettling discussions or even witnessed bullying spurred by the current climate.
As we navigate this challenging chapter in American history, let’s make a conscious effort to focus on our children. Yes, we should engage as activists and advocate for our democracy, but let’s not do so at the expense of nurturing our kids. Family must come first.
To help manage my anxiety, I’ve been cutting back on media consumption, especially the endless stream of political news. I’m focusing on reading informative articles from reliable sources that offer actionable insights for concerned citizens. I’m avoiding every sensational headline or news program that only fuels my distress.
Maybe I’m not tough enough or maybe I just need to set boundaries for my own well-being. My kids need me here and now, engaged while they build Lego towers or ask me to put down my phone for a moment of playtime. They deserve my full attention during bedtime snuggles and when they ponder the mysteries of the universe, like why the moon seems to follow us home.
Sure, our country may be facing challenges, but our children represent hope for a brighter future. They have an incredible ability to heal us, too. So, no matter how bleak things seem, take a moment to see the world through your kids’ eyes. Listen to their curious questions, and cherish their trust and wonder. Hold their hands, embrace them tightly, and don’t hesitate to stomp in those puddles during a rainstorm.
And let’s not forget to laugh! Kids know how to find joy in the simplest moments, and laughter truly is the best medicine.
While it’s essential to stay informed about our nation’s happenings, we must strive for balance. We can’t allow our fears to consume us to the point of neglecting the parenting our children desperately need and deserve.
For more insights on family life, check out this post on our other blog.
In summary, even when the world feels heavy, redirect your focus to your kids. They are not just our greatest hope but also our source of joy. Take care of yourself so you can be the parent they need.