Updated: Dec. 1, 2016
Originally Published: Dec. 1, 2016
In recent weeks, like many others, I have felt a profound sense of unease and anxiety. The weight of current events has left me feeling unsettled, vulnerable, and, at times, overwhelmed. With the political landscape shifting dramatically, I find myself oscillating between feelings of frustration, insignificance, and insecurity. My thoughts often drift to the safety and happiness of my family, especially my children, and their friends, as well as the well-being of families across our diverse nation.
The news has become a constant companion, with my eyes glued to headlines on a never-ending loop—even during late-night hours. I often wake from restless sleep, drenched in a vague sense of panic, questioning whether this tumultuous situation is just a nightmare from which I can awaken. I’ve caught myself scrolling through social media obsessively, trying to stay abreast of every new development, muttering disbelief at the outlandish statements being made.
As a result, I’ve noticed a shift in my interactions with my children. I find myself snapping at them more frequently and losing my patience quicker than ever before. I haven’t been the parent I aspire to be. While I could attribute this to sleep deprivation or overwhelming anxiety, I understand that these feelings shouldn’t overshadow my responsibility as a mother.
It’s crucial, especially during trying times, that our children remain our primary focus. They are perceptive beings who can sense our distress. Even if we believe they’re shielded from the chaos, they overhear conversations and absorb the atmosphere around them. If they are in school, they might encounter discussions among peers or, even worse, instances of bullying influenced by prevailing sentiments.
As we navigate this turbulent chapter in our nation’s history, let’s prioritize our children. While activism is essential and we must engage in efforts to uphold democratic values, we cannot neglect our role as parents. Family must come first.
To cope, I’ve been intentionally reducing my media consumption, particularly the overwhelming barrage of political discourse. I focus only on articles from reliable sources that provide actionable insights for concerned citizens. I need to establish boundaries for my own mental health and well-being. My kids deserve a present and engaged mother, one who can get down on the floor to build with them or be fully attentive at bedtime as they share their thoughts and questions about the universe.
Our children are not only our greatest hope; they can also provide us with healing and perspective. So, no matter how disheartened you might feel about the state of the world, take a moment to see life through your children’s eyes. Listen to their curious inquiries, acknowledge their inherent trust, and embrace moments of joy. Run through the rain with them, splash in puddles, and share genuine laughter—it’s truly the best remedy.
Let’s remain aware of the changes around us, committed to activism and the preservation of our shared humanity. But let’s also seek balance. We must ensure that our fears do not overshadow our ability to be the nurturing parents our children need us to be. For more insights on parenting amid uncertainty, check out this post on intracervical insemination.
Summary:
The article discusses the emotional challenges many parents face in light of current events and emphasizes the importance of focusing on children during these turbulent times. It encourages parents to be present, engage in joyful activities, and create a balance between activism and family life while providing useful resources for further reading.