The Johnson family sits just behind us at our local church. They have five kids or maybe it’s seven—who can keep track? What I do know is their youngest is 12, almost the same age as our eldest. Every Sunday, our youngest, Riley, who is a bit of a wild spirit and has a knack for sprinting toward the front to grab the microphone, joins them. This mom has an arsenal of snacks, toys, and a wealth of experience from raising a whole brood. Their kids are more than willing to help too. Riley fits in with them like she’s part of their family.
Initially, I felt a twinge of guilt. It seemed like I was relying on someone else to manage our child while we focused on the service. However, as I got to know this family, especially the mother, I realized this was simply their way. They love kids, and having Riley with them is not a chore; it’s a joy.
Now, when I’m with Riley, it can feel overwhelming. I adore her, but she’s an energetic handful! So, the fact that this family is willing to help during church is a tremendous relief.
Then there’s a woman named Linda who lives a few blocks away. We’re situated in a rural part of Oregon, far from our relatives in California and Nevada, which means we can’t just drop the kids off with Grandma for a night out or a trip to the store. But we have Linda. She’s in her fifties, with silver hair and a warm demeanor. Her children are around my age, and she has two grandkids, but they’re quite a distance away.
I’m not sure how it happened, but Linda embraced us like family. When my partner was finishing her degree a few years back, Linda generously watched our youngest for three days each week so she could attend class. When we want a date night, she’s our first call. Linda shows up to our kids’ soccer games and birthday parties, always bringing along some fun craft or small gift. She knows my son loves superheroes and my daughters are crazy about unicorns, and she’ll frequently surprise them with little treasures she found.
In many ways, she’s become their pseudo-grandmother and a cherished part of our lives. While many may be fortunate enough to have their own family nearby, we find ourselves geographically isolated. It’s during these times that you start to appreciate how vital a supportive community is.
Not everyone is as selfless as Linda or the Johnsons. There are countless individuals who treat your children with the same love and care as their own, and that makes a world of difference. Whether they’re coaches, neighbors, or teachers, these unsung heroes deserve recognition. They remind us that we’re not alone in this parenting journey, especially when family isn’t within reach.
It’s easy to dwell on the challenges of parenting. I’m guilty of venting about my kids just like everyone else! But let’s take a moment to reflect on those who willingly love our children without any strings attached. In times of isolation, they become the support system we desperately need, showing us the true meaning of unconditional love.
So, let’s give a shout-out to those wonderful people in our lives! They are the backbone of our parenting experience, transforming what could be a daunting task into a manageable and joyful adventure.
For more insights on navigating parenting challenges and fostering community ties, check out this blog post. And if you’re considering options for home insemination, this is a fantastic resource to explore.
Summary
This article celebrates the vital role of supportive individuals in our lives who genuinely love and care for our children. From neighbors to community members, these helpers alleviate the challenges of parenting, especially when family is far away. They exemplify the essence of love and community, serving as a reminder that we are never truly alone in our parenting journey.
Keyphrase
helpers in parenting
Tags
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