Dear Amazing Moms,
It’s not every day you receive a message from the past, but in some ways, that’s what karma is all about—a topic I often shared with you while you were growing up.
This isn’t an “I told you so” kind of letter. Instead, I’m reaching out to ask you to embrace empathy in your parenting journey with my beloved grandchildren. The best parenting blends understanding their thoughts with a pinch of discipline. Let’s call it “Empapline.” (Sounds a bit like a medicine, doesn’t it? Maybe it should come with a fun side effect of laughter!)
When you find your kids creating the same delightful chaos that once had me pulling my hair out, take a moment to remember your own thoughts back in the day. Don’t be too quick to judge when their rooms resemble a tornado’s aftermath. Think back to when I would remind you to “always leave a room better than you found it.” I’m sure I sounded like a broken record, but hey, that’s how it goes!
Remember those summers when you spent time with your dad, and I would lament how the house became a pristine oasis while you were away, only to return to utter chaos? I must’ve sounded like quite the nag! And now, as you watch your little ones nod in agreement while promptly ignoring your requests, I hope you can chuckle at the familiar irony.
Be gentle with my grandkids when they seem less than thrilled at your exciting plans. Their bored expressions and “Nahhh” responses are merely their way of saying they’re not ready for fun on your schedule.
And when those tiny disputes erupt into epic battles over a mere glance, remember: it’s all part of the game. You know the drill—stay calm and don’t let it drive you to the brink.
As you hear the inevitable “I didn’t do it!” or “It wasn’t me!” echoing through the house, please exercise a little restraint. These are words that every mother knows all too well, including those with just one child!
My grandbabies will never wish for another mom or think that the grass is greener elsewhere. When the teenage years roll around and those little white lies start creeping in, try to keep in mind that they’re not trying to betray you; they just want to keep the peace.
Keep your cool when they complain about having “nothing” for breakfast, despite a kitchen full of options. What they’re really saying is that they want something that’s not only delicious but also bad for their health—ah, the language of kids!
And if you find yourself answering the same question 15 times in just three hours, don’t worry. The “no” answer seems to have a statute of limitations of about 12 minutes, at least until they turn 16!
Stay strong, lovely ladies. You are resilient, smart, and accomplished mothers, and I couldn’t be prouder of you. Even on the toughest days, I promise you, the sun will shine through, and your children will flourish because you, too, have turned out wonderfully.
Karma may pay a visit, but she’ll eventually take a break, only to return with renewed vigor. Just remember: Empapline! And when you see me smiling serenely, know that I am filled with love and admiration for you and my grandchildren—while also chuckling inside at the beautiful chaos of motherhood.
With all my love,
Mom