One Way

It was a gorgeous day at Mt. Rainier National Park.

Mobs of people were there and parking was limited.

We had to park a mile away from the lodge and the trailhead.

The road we were on only went one way.

For the cars at least.

But we were walking against the traffic, heading up to the parking lot where there had been no open spaces when we drove through.

I found it ironic as we passed the sign telling us the only way to go was the opposite direction.

In life, there are a thousand different ways to get somewhere.

By car, by bus, by train, by plane, on foot.

We are living in a world where the options are seemingly endless.

And yet...

It can still feel like we have no idea which way to go.

This summer has been a big one for me and our family.

The closing of a significant chapter.

The transition from having children at home, to supporting them from afar.

There were many days on this parenting journey where I've felt like I was going in the wrong direction.

When the boys were little, I spent a lot of time wondering if I ever got it right.

I think lots of moms feel that way. There's so much pressure.

But what I've learned as my boys have grown, is that there is no "right" way to raise children.

There's only the way that works for you and your family.

And when they are little, you have no idea how much of what you are trying to teach them is actually sinking in.

I feel like that's the hardest part of parenting, right?

The waiting.

Waiting to see how they will turn out.

Now, when I look at my boys, I wish I had spent less time worrying back then.

I wish I had been more present with them and enjoyed them more when they were little.

Because somewhere along the way, they learned right from wrong, how to be resourceful and make their own way, and how to be good, kind people.

I'm sure it wasn't only because of me, but I'm grateful nonetheless.

I feel for all of the other parents who are letting their children go right now, too.

It's a scary, beautiful, nerve-wracking, wonderful thing to watch them embark on this journey.

They're going to make mistakes, and learn a few things the hard way.

The important thing is to remember that there's more than one way for them to go.

They'll find the way that's right for them.

Promise.

Thanks for visiting my blog!

Leave a comment and tell me how my post spoke to you today.

If you'd like a copy of one of my books, there are lots of ways for you to get them!

We Are the Sum of Our Choices