When Your Child Turns 40: Reflecting on the Journey of Raising an Extraordinary Individual

 

Time really does fly, doesn't it?  It feels like just yesterday when I held that precious bundle of joy in my arms, the one that turned me into a mom;  and now here he is - turning 40 for heaven's sake!.   

As parents, we embark on a rollercoaster journey when we bring a child into the world.   Through the ups and downs, the trials and triumphs, the tears, the joys - we witness their growth, face the hurdles that life throws at us, and marvel at the incredible person they become. 

The process of raising a child begins even before they arrive in this world.  Through their infancy, where they rely on us for every need, we then try to muddle through, guiding them through their first steps, their first words, and the marvels of using a spoon.  We join them on the wonders of exploring the world around them. We witness their personalities develop, trying to help them shape their character as they grow. We try as best we can with what we have in our own physical and emotional tool box to provide a nurturing environment, instilling values, and hopefully teaching them valuable life lessons. We sacrifice sleep, invest countless hours, and pour our hearts into raising a well-rounded individual.  We wipe porridge out of hair, and scrape poop off walls.  We patiently explain why using the toilet is an essential skill for future life.  We try to ignore the worms and snails in plastic bags (“ but i want them for  pets!”) and we pray fervently that our shortcomings, mistakes and ignorance won't be the cause of too much suffering on their part down the line.

Life is not without its challenges, and our children face their fair share of hurdles along the way. From the early school years to teenage angst, we try to offer support, guidance, and a listening ear. We witness their first heartbreaks, their struggles with self-identity, and their navigation through the complexities of adolescence. As parents, we would like become their confidants, cheerleaders, and source of strength during these tumultuous times. We want to be there with them to help overcome obstacles, teaching them resilience, and preparing them for the road ahead. We patiently appear at the police station explaining in complete and sincere innocence that he didn't start the fire in the school hall because he's a bad kid -  no, on the contrary - he was really cold, and we bail them out hoping they get off with no criminal record for arson, trespassing or having the welfare banging our door down for child neglect.

We bravely navigate the “learning to drive” period.  We sacrifice our cars, learning to take buses because “but i have the car today!”, as well as our mental stability and health.  We are blessed to survive the army by the Grace of God.  We learn that now, now maybe we can sleep at night.  Sometimes.

As we watch our child reach the milestone of turning 40, we can't help but feel immense pride and joy. They have grown into a remarkable individual, shaped by their experiences and their values.  Their achievements and accomplishments become a testament to their hard work and determination. They have built their own nests, and are raising their own families.

They are contributing human beings, making a difference in their and others lives. They contribute to the world, making it just that more of a better place.  

Parenting is a journey that requires dedication, patience, and unconditional love.   Somewhere, in all the muddle, we did something right.  Somewhere, in all the turmoil of life, they survived us and our shortcomings and mistakes. 

So, on a personal note, as I celebrate this milestone, I cherish this journey, am so proud of the person you, my child, have become.   I look back in reflection on the incredible process of raising an extraordinary individual, am so grateful that the universe chose me to be your mom, and am filled with pride and love at who you are.   Happy Birthday my child, with all my love and all my heart ❤️