Cradle To Stage

Rearing children is the most difficult job on earth. One reason for this difficulty is the absence of an instruction manual. No one knows HOW to be a successful parent. We just do what we do and wish for the best. The second reason for this challenge is the job is never ending. Being a parent is a lifetime commitment. We have to nurture our children when we’re tired, angry, sick. Even when we are old, we must parent.

I think I’ve done a fine job with my children. But as Beth Moore recently stated on Instagram, “Parents who think they are fabulous need only wait till their children are grown and beg to differ. And they will.

Last weekend, I watched my first born walk across the stage to receive her degree from Hampton University. She graduated summa cum laude…with highest praise. It was a joy to witness.

Growing up, I would often hear my elders say “time moves by fast” or some iteration of that statement. I didn’t give a second thought to it until I became an adult. I’m amazed that my child is already a college graduate. It was just last year when she was born….a wide eyed, big-cheeked baby girl. Time moves by fast.

Rearing children is difficult, yes. But when your child becomes an adult, the entire game changes. Now, we are navigating this new found era of “friendship”. I’ve laid the foundation. Now, it’s up to her to apply the lessons taught. As a parent of an adult, I now have to guide her from the background as she makes her life’s decisions.

Parenting is certainly a challenge.

8 comments

  1. Parenting young Adults is definitely a different ball game.. Much success to you both on your new found journey

  2. You got it kid! But there is so much more to come as you watch them in their next phase. It’s not the same kind of fun but it’s still great!

  3. You and Rodney are Awesome parents! Your children may grow up and assert their independence, but they always want to know that Mommy and Daddy are there!💕

  4. I am very proud of you. The key is the Love of Christ. You and Mr. Incredible have done it. You both raised bebe-kids in love. You nurtured them to know Christ and to serve him. They are doing what you model. Stay available and guide them. Madison is a beautiful young lady and Chase and Colin are handsome respectable young men. Your bebe-kids have become young warriors ready to conquer the world. Be a good listener and advisor. They still need you. You are super women, married to Mr. Incredible with warrior princess and warrior princes. Be the Queen of the castle. I encourage you ‘As God Speaks, lIsten’ . God Bless you! My Sister.

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