Your
child is not separate from you – he or she
is physically connected now and will be emotionally
and spiritually connected for both of your lifetimes.
And yet, this child has his or her own never-ending
connection with spirit, his or her own unfolding
life plan. Parenting seems to be about switching
the lifeline from you to God, or however you name
the Divine, and allowing a soulful relationship
to blossom without grasping the strings of control.
To counter images of yourself as a parent who
sacrifices your identity for this baby, reflect
on any fulfilling relationship you have experienced.
You’ll most likely notice that it’s
what you bring of your authentic self to the union
that ultimately makes it so satisfying. A real
relationship is one in which we are seen, heard,
honored, and known for our unique selves.
It’s totally possible, even necessary, to
bring your authentic self to this precious relationship.
Yes, it’s important to read mothering self-help
books and carefully heed your Doctor’s instructions
for care giving. But beyond all this lies
the truth of two people in a relationship, two
people who need to find their way to each other
with grace, truth, and love. You will be so much
more than simply a caregiver -- your presence
and spirit matter more than your tasks and obligations.
Explore yourself deeply, what sources you, get
to know how to fill your own well so that you
can bring more of yourself, edges more clearly
defined, to this relationship with your son or
daughter. Enhancing your spirit prepares you to
link at a soul level with your child.
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