Growing up I never really understood the way my parents parented. Especially when I was a teenager. I had a curfew. All of my friends didn't. I couldn't go to slumber parties. I couldn't have friends over. I made my room my haven and lived on the phone. They were so strict. I remember crying myself to sleep a couple times because I couldn't go hang out at the mall with my friends. Crying so hard into my pillow and saying, "I hate you Mom" under my breath. I always thought all my friends that got to do what they wanted were the lucky ones. It wasn't until I had kids of my own that I began to appreciate my parents and realized I was the lucky one.
My parents are my inspiration to be the best mother I can be. All the rules I thought were harsh when I was a teenager was because they cared. I understand now that all they were doing was trying to protect me from a rough world. I know now that all my parents wanted was the best for me, just like I want the best for my own children. Being raised their way made me independent and not have to depend on others. My parents taught me not to be a follower and work hard. It made me a strong woman and ultimately, a great mom. In some ways, I'm raising my kids with the same values my parents raised me but in my own light. I learned to trust my children.
Now that they are grandparents, I know that they are happy with the way I parent.
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Disclosure: This is a compensated post in collaboration with Johnson & Johnson and Latina Bloggers Connect. All opinions are my own.
Labels: Culture, Dad, Global Motherhood, Inspire Care, Johnson And Johnson, Latina Bloggers Connect, LATISM, Mom, Motherhood, My Parents, Social Good