Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Setting Precedence


One of the many reasons why I like to volunteer for charitable events is because I want to set precedence for my children as my parents did for me.

This morning I was pleasantly surprised when that ‘precedence’ was manifested while my son was getting dressed to go to school. I am not entirely sure what we were talking about. It was either that he wants to help set up for his birthday celebrations on Sunday or dinosaur games on the iPad or what he plans to do with his day at school.

It was during that discussion when out of the blue, my son said, “I like to help people. I will help anyone who needs my help.”

I had to stop for a moment and take in a deep breath before hugging him and telling him how much I was proud of him. I felt like the seed of our ‘labor’ has finally been planted and soon we will begin to see the fruit.

 My son is growing up fast and will soon be venturing off into this world independently of his parents. And therefore, the time left to plant seeds of humanity in him is short and we must think of every word we say to him and action we take with or in front of him. And so, for me to see that what we are doing is actually going towards the right direction was relieving.

 I always wonder whether the decision I made or the path I took was the best option. I always question whether I said the right thing or whether I should have said it in a different way. This never happened to me before I had children. Before thinking of having kids, I always knew what I wanted and if I ever made a wrong turn somewhere, it was easy to find the correct path again. I never had to think of anyone except myself…. well that is not entirely true … I always considered what my parents would think if I chose something over another.  

Anyway… suffice to say…

Parenting is not an easy job I tell ya, but it sure is pleasurable and satisfying when you get to see glimpses of the finished product. 

10 comments:

Sarah said...

Jad is an amazing kid and has wonderful parents...I hear he had a pretty awesome Kindergarten teacher too ;)
On a serious note, you've done a great job raising him. I know he will continue to make you proud!
Love you Jado!

Tabouleh said...

Miss Sarah.... you were one of the best... he continues to mention you... I'm serious...
Thank you so much for an uplifting sentence... as a parent you always wonder... and it feels good to hear it from people and his teachers. Thank you! we certainly miss you! You will always have a place for you and your friends to stay at when you visit... any time!

dancingbrook said...

I think Jad might be a charmer. You are right; time flies when your kids are growing. What seemed like eternity from a kid's perspective, is over way too soon from a parent's perspective. Plant as much as you can now. Once puberty hits, you might have a hard time finding the garden.

Tabouleh said...

Sound advice Peter... thank you... will continue to sow and hopefully he will continue to be receptive :)

Isa said...

You are really doing a good job!

Tabouleh said...

Thank you Isa... you are so sweet... I hope I am!

Jan said...

That's such a beautiful moment isn't it Lana? How you reflect on your actions and clarify your intentions as a parent is so wonderful. The children are very lucky to have such mindful and loving parents(as I am sure their Dad is equally as committed to this way of reflecting as you are). Blessings to your little ones and to the two of you. x

Ofelia said...

Lana, as always what a beautiful post!!!
Our actions and words are very important to our children and its just as important to have empathy for others.
We may not be able to fix all problems but we can a least assist one person find a solution to some of his/hers troubles.
Have a fantastic week,

Tabouleh said...

Thank you sweet Jan... your words touched me deeply... Much love to you!

Tabouleh said...

Thank you lovely Ofelia and you are so right... we try to help one step at a time... in order to change anything we need to take baby steps... cannot climb a mountain in one step.. hope you have a great week as well...