I look at my child wistfully, wishing that he
Would be interested in or excel at a particular activity
Like every parent, I want him to have a future bright
I want him to do everything considered “right”
And then I remind myself- he is his own person indeed
To expect something from him is a reflection of my need
To realize my unfulfilled dreams, which I am trying to do vicariously
The trouble, then, does not lie in what he is doing but squarely with me…
*
It is hard to know in parenting where to draw the line
Encouraging and guiding children is fine
But when our aspirations we inadvertently place
On our children, the consequences they have to face
Each time I try to force my son into something, I look within
To uncover if I am trying to live my dreams through him..
*
My child is under no obligation
To lead my dreams to actualization
Let him chase his desires, and let me
Extend my support unconditionally
Passion...unbridled 