As I approach my 40s, I’ve recently started to feel a sense of wisdom—not the Gandalf kind, but more like a confident urban woman finding her rhythm. It dawned on me that the source of this newfound knowledge isn’t just age; it’s my 3-year-old son, who has opened my eyes to a wealth of insights, even if he doesn’t quite grasp what middle age means. Here are six lessons I’m learning from him.
1. Hair Care Can Be Low Maintenance
For years, I’ve been frustrated that my hair looks its best right before I hop in the shower. It never occurred to me to skip the wash and enjoy my natural style. My son, with his carefree attitude, often goes days without a wash, and somehow, his hair always looks great. Who knew I’d be saving money on shampoo thanks to his wisdom?
2. A Little Water Won’t Ruin a Book
A few splashes of bath water on the pages of a book don’t spell disaster. That slight crinkle at the corner can add character, just like the worn edges of a beloved story. My son and I often find ourselves in a playful dispute about dust jackets; I advocate for them, while he delights in stripping them away.
3. Coloring Outside the Lines is Encouraged
When it comes to coloring, my son knows that pressing down hard leads to vibrant artwork. My past anxieties about ruining a perfect crayon tip held me back, much like how I hesitated to use my expensive lipstick in college. But I’ve learned that embracing boldness—whether with a crayon, lipstick, or an adventure—is where the real magic happens.
4. Confidence is the True Style
Fashion magazines might suggest that confidence comes from wearing the right clothes, but my son shows me otherwise. He mixes and matches outfits and even takes the scissors to his own hair without a second thought. He struts down the street, completely unbothered by comparison, and it’s a beautiful reminder that real style comes from self-acceptance.
5. Cuddles are a Necessity
During my busy 20s, I became a bit too independent and forgot the power of physical affection. Sharing my bed with my son has reignited my appreciation for cuddling, reminding me of the warmth and comfort it brings. Whether it’s snuggling with him or my husband, I’ve learned to cherish these moments, even if it means some summer sweat.
6. The Art of Patience Through Letter Writing
As my son learns to form letters, I’ve found joy in the process of letter writing once again. It takes time and thought, but the satisfaction of crafting a message to a friend is worth the wait. The anticipation of sending it off and imagining it brightening someone’s day brings a comforting slow pace to our fast-paced world. For more insights on patience, this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination can be helpful: What to Expect with Your First IUI.
These lessons from my son have opened my eyes to the beauty of simplicity and the importance of presence. I could share more, but time is short, and I’d rather spend it cuddling than typing.
Summary
As I navigate my impending 40s, my child is a constant source of valuable lessons. From embracing low-maintenance hair care and finding beauty in imperfections to understanding the true essence of confidence and the joy of cuddling, these insights are shaping my approach to life. The art of patience in letter writing has also reminded me of the rewards that come with slowing down. Life is rich with lessons, especially when viewed through the eyes of a child.
Keyphrase: Life Lessons from My Child
Tags: [“home insemination kit”, “home insemination syringe”, “self insemination”]