Today, I’m heading to visit my daughter in Portland, and it’s hard to believe she’s already graduated from college and is starting her journey in the world. As I packed for my trip, nostalgia washed over me, reminding me of her childhood; it’s astonishing to think she’s 22 now.
Amid my reflections, a particular memory emerged—one of my proudest moments as a parent—and that brought a sense of clarity and strength. When my daughter, Lily, was in first or second grade, I found myself in the kitchen after dinner, where her constant chatter revolved around a Shih Tzu. She delighted in using the word, seemingly reveling in her cleverness of saying “shit” without actually saying it.
After she had woven “Shih Tzu” into the conversation countless times, I finally reached my limit.
Me: “That was amusing at first, but it’s time to stop.”
Lily: “Stop what? Saying ‘Shih Tzu’?”
Me: “Yes, exactly that.”
Lily: “Oh, you want me to stop saying ‘Shih Tzu’?”
Me: “Yes, no more.”
Lily: “So no more saying ‘Shih Tzu’?”
Me: “That’s right. If you say it one more time, you’ll be going to bed at 8:30.”
At this moment, my son, Max, who was two years older, began to pay attention with wide eyes.
Lily: (laughing) “You wouldn’t really make me go to bed at 8:30.”
Me: “Yes, I would. Don’t test me.”
In that instant, I realized my past failures. I had often threatened consequences without ever following through. My children understood that their privileges were safe, and I was hesitant to be the “mean parent.”
Lily: “Are you saying don’t test you by saying ‘Shih Tzu’ again?”
Time froze. Lily’s joy was palpable as she danced around, while Max watched me closely, waiting for my next move. I knew neither of them believed I would actually enforce my threat, and deep down, I doubted it too.
In that brief moment of reflection, I noticed Max subtly nodding his head in encouragement.
Me: “Lily, you’re going to bed at 8:30.”
Lily: “You can’t mean it! I promise I won’t say it again!”
Me: “I do mean it. I’ve warned you multiple times, and you chose to ignore me.”
Lily: (bursting into tears) “I can’t believe you’re making me go to bed at 8:30!”
As she ran out of the room, I glanced at Max, who grinned widely. “Good job, Mom,” he said. “I didn’t think you’d actually do it.” I was taken aback, learning a lesson from my 9-year-old.
That night, we all learned a significant lesson. I realized my ability to uphold my word and, more importantly, that my children needed to understand there are consequences for their actions. From that day forward, I became a more consistent parent, and my children began to take my statements seriously.
Ironically, Lily now works with dogs in obedience training. When I visit her and listen to her discuss her job, she emphasizes the importance of consistency and follow-through—life lessons that truly took root.
In summary, this experience exemplifies the necessity of being consistent and following through in both parenting and life. It’s essential for children to understand the weight of their actions and the promises made by their parents. For those interested in home insemination, resources like Cleveland Clinic and Make A Mom can provide valuable insights on the subject.
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