Emma has informed us multiple times, sometimes tearfully, that she doesn't want to grow up. She doesn't want to be a mommy. She doesn't even pretend to be mommy to her dolls. I have to admit this has made me question my example of motherhood. I wonder if my life really looks that miserable. Maybe all she sees is a stressed out adult who works doing things she doesn't like (cleaning toilets, laundry, the list could go on and on and on) and yells a lot. I take comfort that when asked why, she has said that she doesn't want to stop being Emma. We have had many conversations about things we learn, opportunities in her future, and the fact that she will still be Emma. We have even shown her pictures of Paul and I as children. Unfortunately, she can't seem to understand it that way. So for now, I just tell her that she doesn't have to grow up now and she won't have to until she is ready. This is okay with me. She is growing up too fast as it is.
Meanwhile, I'm working on having more fun during my days, listening to music, singing, dancing, and laughing. She is right. I need to show my happiness and be crazy sometimes. It sure helps to beat the January blues!
3 comments:
You are so smart to just assure her that it's OK to not grow up. As she gets older she'll be able to articulate her feelings better, and you may be surprised that it's because she's afraid that if she's the mom, you won't be any more. Or whatever. My point is, they surprise you for feeling a certain way, and then surprise you as to their reasons why. I had just such an epiphanal moment with my 18 year old today. It never ends, Brooke!
I agree with Emma. I don't want to grow up either. She is so cute. I'm glad you are reassuring her that she doesn't have to grow up yet~the time will come when you will wish she won't want to grow up--like when she starts driving and dating.
Cute post. You are a great Mom.
Oh Brooke! The lenses our kids see life through is so different than ours....you're an awesome Mom and have such a heart of gold....she is adorable and this may be a really sweet way of God showing you to enjoy your children and take life one moment at a time-that is great advice for all of us stressed out Mommies! Love you!
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