“It was not the objective that made one a hero—it was the journey, the quest itself.” – Morgan Rice
Parenting can be a tricky business. It takes strength, love, and big-ass cajones. Quite frankly, it’s the ultimate hero’s journey. Here’s why:
The Ordinary World
A darling baby is born. Cherished, adored, loved. It’s a wonderful experience, even with its sleeplessness and frenzied newness. Glorious, really.
The Call to Action
Somewhere along the way, you realize your child doesn’t fit the norm. Well, that’s actually pretty cool, you think. I don’t want my kid to be a sheep. I want him/her to stand out. That’s awesome!
Then it gets harder. Then school/society insists you make your child conform.
Refusal of the Call
You acquiesce because after all, we DO live in society. Don’t we all need to get along? Won’t it be easier for my child if he/she fits in? These people are the experts and I’ve only been a parent for, like, a nanosecond. Maybe I should listen to them.
Meeting with the Mentor
There are many meetings with mentors. Many. Therapists, experts whose books you read, parenting blogs, conferences attended, you name it.
Crossing the Threshold
You finally recognize that the darling, innocent baby you held is a child with his/her own agenda. His/her own needs and desires and maybe – just maybe – this society stuff is bullshit.
Tests, Allies, Enemies
The experts, family, friends, yourself…all think you’re nuts for handling your child’s situation the way you are. You’re ignoring the experts! You’re following your intuition! What. The. Hell. Are. You. Doing?
Approach
You begin to realize there’s no expert who can really tell you how best to raise your child. You have trust yourself and your child and just go at it. You’re scared as all hell, but you know there’s no turning back.
Central Ordeal
You tell the so-called authorities to go screw. You know what’s best for your kid, and hell – if you don’t your kid sure does. You’re going to follow that path now. And trust it.
Reward
The relationship between parent and child is renewed. Strengthened. The bond is unmistakable and unbreakable.
The Road Back
Your child is finding his/her way. The true way. The way of being true to him/herself. You’ve picked up how to do this, too.
Resurrection
Your child becomes comfortable in his/her own skin, for perhaps the first time ever. You let got of any guilt you’ve been carrying around, because you know the journey had to happen this way.
Return with Elixir
You get to share with other parents how you’ve done it. How you’ve fought against conformity and created space for your child to relish in who he/she truly is.
Love and light,
Melissa
What has your parenting journey been like? Which step most resonates with what you’ve experienced? Leave a comment below!
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