Mom

When I was in my early to mid twenties, I was married and living in my first home.  There was a couple across the street who had kids about my age.  One of them still lived at home.  He didn't pay rent.  His girlfriend spent the night all the time.  I told my (then) husband that our kids would never be allowed to do that.  He looked at me as if I were crazy and asked "Why not?"  I said that if they could have that kind of adult freedom with no adult responsibilities at home,  what incentive would they have to ever grow up and move out?

In my house, 18 does not mean you are an adult.  Being ready to take responsibility and achieve independence means your an adult.  Sometimes, that can only be accomplished through "tough love."  I have recently made some parenting decisions that my intellect recognizes as solid choices, but are almost too much for my mother's heart to bare.

Today, in a moment of weakness, I called my mom to talk through one of my choices.  Could I really stick with the plan.  Should I?  Thank God my mother has the ability to put being grandma aside and speak with the wisdom of a seasoned mother of four.  Her support allowed me to move on so I could do what needed to be done for my kids.

Mom, thank you for the moral support this morning.  Deep down I know it's the right thing, but I don't know if I could have done it without your reassurance.