Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Statistic Shmatistic!

I was listening to KSBJ this morning on my way to work as usual. I heard a startling statistic that honestly shook me to my core. They said that the happiest couples are those making between $50,000 and $75,000 and have no kids. I did a little Google research and found this article that said "Conclusion: Kids, or rather the parenting of kids, is a common source of adult stress."

In conclusion of the article, the author was merely encouraging moms to take time for themselves. I see absolutely nothing wrong with that and encourage moms to do the same. The only problem I have is that I think most parents should not have had kids to begin with. (Something that might not sit well with some readers, but it is my personal opinion) Having a child is a big responsibility but an even greater joy. You are responsible for not only their wellbeing and education but their spiritual leadership and emotional stability as well. I'm not saying you are responsbile for their decisions as a grown adult, but I do think that we have more responsibility in molding and shepherding the people that our children are than America realizes or cares to realize.

Throughout the stages of Ryot's life, I have received warnings about her. I would talk about wanting her to roll over and they would say "Oh no, because then you really have to start watching her." I would talk about wanting her to crawl and they would say, "Oh no, then she will be everywhere and give you a workout." I would talk about wanting her to walk and they would say "Oh no, then she will be into everything." I talk now about being excited for her to talk more and they say "Oh no, because then she won't shut up." I hear these things and cringe!

I am not the perfect mother by ANY means. But there is one thing that I can't deny - I love this little girl with every fiber of my being. "I was made for you, you were made for me, my sweetheart!" (Ho Hey by The Lumineers)

Are there times that I get irritated, frustrated, overwhelmed, stressed, defeated or angry? OF COURSE! It's hard to try to cook dinner while she is trying to stick crackers in the dvd player. It's hard to pee in under 2.5 seconds because if I dont she is throwing shoes down the stairs. It's hard to rock her to sleep not knowing if I was firm enough or consistent enough or educational enough to aid her development and discipline. But if I am asked what stresses me out in life, she is NOT going to be one of them. The mere joy that she provides is way more than enough to counter any part of stress she produces. If anything the stress comes from my fear of parenting and not anything that she is doing.

I LOVED when she started rolling over. I LOVED helping her crawl and following her around the house. I LOVED when she started walking everywhere and exploring. I LOVE seeing her form new ideas and opinions and trying to form her own words and sentences. I am really looking forward to the next stages in life. Yes, having an itty bitty baby is fun and cute but this almost 2 yr old stage is my favorite so far! Every stage has been my new favorite and I don't predict that will change on to the next stages.

Some people don't want to have kids, can't physically have kids or can't afford to have kids. That is their right and their perogative. More power to them and their happiness. But I refuse to believe that a life without my precious angel would be more enjoyable. Children have an innocent way of reminding you what is important in life. Sure, I could use the money for diapers, childcare, wipes, food, etc on other things but why would I when I get to see her beautiful smile every day?

Ever since I can remember I have wanted to be a mom. I love Ryot. She is everything that I ever dreamed of and more. I am really looking forward to having more children. I know that Ryot will be a great big sister. Someday I will have more pictures like these...

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