<Ironic you have a parenting website when…..[insert personal attack on one of my kids] >
Ugh.
For a moment, judgment trampled my hope. This no longer felt like a safe place. I wanted to hide in the darkness and choose to journey alone again. I wanted to run for cover and tattle on this schoolyard bully. Isn’t it striking how quickly pain can make us regress?
But I know better. I know that nothing good can come from isolation and withdrawing.
So to the one who hoped to post this publicly to hurt me, I need you to know I am sorry.
I am sorry you had to hide behind an anonymous comment to send me a message you felt I needed to hear. I am sorry technology makes this easy and acceptable instead of us having a real-life conversation that could bring clarity or at least understanding.
I am sorry you felt I was claiming to be an expert on raising children. Truthfully, I call it a good day when everyone wears underwear and has matching socks. I am simply a Mom, ankle deep in her own journey. And I’m trying to offer hope and humour to others whether they are wading in the muck or enjoying a mountain view.
I am sorry I gave your words too much weight. That I let them sucker-punch the joy out of the lifegiving day I was having with my boys. I am especially sorry I paused my day to be online at all.
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dear mom
To all the moms who have felt the sting of judgment, from a stranger or a friend, through loathing eyes or an all-caps cruel font….I’m sorry for your pain. I know this small example pales in comparison to what many of you have experienced.
We teach our children the power of words, yet sometimes forget ourselves. Sticks and stones and all that.
For those moments when you want to hide, when those blanket covers call you to safety, I understand.
Just breathe.
Take care of precious you. Do something lifegiving. Hug your little one. Smell the flowers. And when you are ready, step back out into the light.
Share with those who will love your unravelled bits unconditionally and help knit you back together.
And know that there is a loving God who wants to help to heal your heart. Whether you have been bruised or pummelled, pour a coffee and sip some truth from this song.
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This article originally appeared at: LightlyFrayed.com.
