Parenting: A Proud Moment

Proud moments can be hard to come by when parenting a child with mental illness. Sometimes, the opportunity to see them is hard because our own view as a parent keeps us from doing so. We get caught up in the negative behaviors that our children show and it can be difficult to see the small victories. Then we miss the chance to show them how proud we are of them.

New Year; Proud Moment

Starting the new year on a positive note is a great thing for me. I realized this last night while Bob was doing homework. Watching him as his did his work, I realized how proud I am of Bob.

I've shared before about some of the difficulties Bob had with homework in the past. The whining, tears and frustration were felt very often. Bob was frustrated, I was upset and we both struggled for hours during homework time. Those days seem like such a long time ago.

Past Homework Issues

Bob was around 6 or 7 years old when he began struggling with completing his assignments. School was his least favorite place. He was in an after-school program, but would not do homework there. Bob avoided it like the plague. That is, until I picked him up and checked his bag. While I made dinner, it was battle time. I'd get upset and Bob would inevitably get punished. I shake my head now as I think about the unfairness Bob dealt with. Instead of acting to help him, I reacted to the situation. And it didn't work.

What Works Today

With medication, therapy and homework strategies, Bob has come a long way from that young, struggling boy. He is a young man now; almost a teenager (in two months). Bob is a smart, capable young man. Nothing proved it more as I made dinner last night.

Bob got right to work completing two assignments. He had math and social studies to finish. I watched as he used his calculator and wrote down his answers. My heart swelled with pride. Yes, it took a long time for us to get to this point. Yes, it took a great deal of hard work and effort. But, it was all worth it. Bob is now a young man who can buckle down and do what he needs to do everyday.

I'm very proud of my son.

photo credit: symphony of love via photopin cc