Especially when our children are young, it’s easy to fall into the trap of saying things like, “My life’s on hold till my kids get older.” “We haven’t been able to do real life for a while, but we’ll get back to it when our kids go to school.” It’s as if we view this time with our children as keeping us from our “real” lives.

Okay, let’s talk real for a second.

Yes, parenting changes your life, and sometimes parenting is really hard. Sometimes you try to go for a walk (or in my case, wheel) and your kids both have meltdowns on the sidewalk and you have to figure out how to drag them home. Sometimes you try to go to the grocery store and it turns into the melodrama of the century, loud enough for the world to see. Sometimes you try to go out with friends and your child gets sick and you have to stay home. Sometimes you have important people over and your child runs in, sans-pants, announcing his latest accident. Sometimes you try to rest and your children turn into a tornado wreaking total havoc on your never-will-be-the-same home. Sometimes you want to do more grown-up things, be it school, work, or social, and you have to say no. Sometimes you’re utterly exhausted.

But let’s find some perspective for a moment, shall we? A lot of times, parenting is amazing. A lot of times, your child runs to you with a giant grin and a huge hug. A lot of times, your children sing (and if happy had a sound, it would be children singing). A lot of times, your children share their joys and little victories with you. A lot of times, your children come to you for comfort and guidance, allowing you to tap into your very best self for someone you love more than anything. A lot of times, your children snuggle up with you, showing you just how important you are (and on special occasions you get to hear them say the best three words ever uttered, “I love you.”). A lot of times, children present us with opportunities to do fun activities and feel like a kid again; and they show us how to enjoy and appreciate the simple things life has to offer. A lot of times, children smile, and if you stop and appreciate it, your heart warms and you realize what life is really all about.

Whatever life situation led you to becoming a parent, here you are. And it’s real: this incredible life-changing experience. Be present and live it, I mean really live it; for this is a massive piece in your adventure of life.

So next time you’re having a hard day, or feeling small, please remember this. Parenting doesn’t put your life on hold. Parenting is the school that teaches you life. Parenting is the best, most intense, most difficult, most joyful and love-filled chapter of your life. This is where your life story’s hero grows, realizes her strength, and leaves her most important legacy.

Everyone’s parenting scene is so different. Whatever yours looks like, soak in this time. Embrace the hard, always look for the good, and appreciate the beauty that is this unique and ever-changing journey. You have been given an opportunity to love like you’ve never had before. Love with all your heart.

20