If there’s one fundamental truth about parenting I’ve learned, it’s that it truly takes a village. I’ve had friends step in to pick up my kids from school when I’m caught in traffic, neighbors bringing over soup and Gatorade when we were all down with the flu, and experienced moms reassuring new ones that they’re doing a great job at a tough time. Motherhood can certainly be a wild ride, right? So yes, a little help here and there is not just appreciated—sometimes it’s essential.
However, sometimes the “help” you think you’re providing can actually be quite counterproductive. It can even feel insulting to a parent who’s already doing their best. Yes, I’m looking at you, LISA. Remember when you saw me at the pharmacy last week with my three kids? We were at the CVS counter while the staff sorted out an issue with my insurance.
That was the fourth stop of a long day filled with errands, and it was also lunchtime, making it even trickier with my four-year-old in tow. I was constantly reminding my kids to sit quietly and use their indoor voices. It was a challenge, but we managed to get through it.
I apologize for holding up the line; I know it can be frustrating. And sure, my kids can get a bit lively when they’ve been cooped up in the car for a while. But they weren’t causing any harm. They were simply being children. So, you can imagine my anger when I found out you were disciplining them while I was at the counter.
You were at the back of the line, and I was too focused on the situation at hand to see or hear what you were doing. Apparently, you took it upon yourself to shush them and tell my boys to stop touching each other. Did you think I needed your help? Did you really believe I was unaware of my kids’ behavior? Most importantly, did I ask for your input?
I appreciate genuine offers of help, like when a stranger holds a door for me while I juggle strollers or assists with bags when my hands are full. But let’s be clear: you did not birth my children, so you can back off, JENNIFER. It’s not your place to tell them what to do or how to behave.
If they’re not harming themselves or anyone else, there’s no reason for you to showcase your parenting expertise. I’m sure you’re a wonderful mom—your kids probably do amazing things, but that doesn’t give you the right to correct mine.
If you have genuine offers to help, I might welcome them. But don’t you dare take it upon yourself to discipline my kids quietly from the back of the line at CVS. I’m the one who brought them into this world, and I’m the one who will guide them on how to behave.
For those exploring parenthood, resources like March of Dimes offer excellent guidance, and if you’re considering self-insemination options, check out this informative post for insights. Another great resource is Cryobaby’s home intracervical insemination kit, which offers valuable tools for your journey.
In summary, while it’s always nice to have a community to lean on, there are boundaries. Parenting is hard enough without unsolicited advice or discipline from bystanders. Remember, we all have our unique parenting journeys, and it’s best to let each parent navigate their own path.
Leave a Reply