Unsung Heroes Include Parents
What is your definition of a hero? Most likely, it is something along the lines of “an extraordinary person who is brave and self-less and has made an act of supreme courage in the face of danger.”
There are many heroes among us these days: first responders, respiratory therapists, grocery workers, police officers, nurses, doctors… so many people on the front line. Also, tales of myths and epic battles are dotted with courageous figures, and we know of real life heroes such as pilot Sully Sullenberger, astronaut Neil Armstrong and civil rights activists Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr.
But studies indicate that there is a hero in everyone just waiting for the right combination of circumstances to be brought to life. You might not realize it but as a parent, you are a hero too.
Your heroism is being brought to life every time you:
- Listen patiently to a long story
- Gently wipe a nose
- Change a diaper
- Wash pots and pans
- Honor the guidelines for staying at home and physical distancing
- Chase away the big dust bunnies
- Make time to nurture yourself
- Are grateful and share that with your children
- Choose to take a deep breath instead of yell
- Reach out to connect warmly with your partner and each of your children of all ages
- Find a way to make the mundane memorable
- Find the humor in situations
- Put underwear on your head
- Stay the course of patience
- Practice forgiveness…over and over
- Show compassion every day
- Laugh
This is where the traditional definition of “hero” is turned on its head. A hero isn’t someone else. It is you.
Ordinary people all over are brave and selfless, and have the courage to show up and be present, day after day, with their families.
Anyone who doesn’t think parenting can be dangerous has never been accidentally kicked in the nose, caught a GI bug from a sick child, or been bonked in the head by an unexpected show of enthusiastic jumping.
We’ve all heard that “the world needs heroes.” This is true. Stories of heroes uplift and inspire us.
You are the one who can uplift and inspire your child, because your child needs a hero. There is no one in the world who can fill that role better than you.
So in these trying times, stand tall. You’ve got this. Reach out to others. Cherish yourself. Hold on to your faith and your values.
Persevere in your purpose. This is the everyday work of the parent hero.
Dr. Lesley Iwinski is the mother of three grown children, a family physician and owner of Growing Peaceful Families, LLC. She offers classes, workshops and seminars. Info: (859) 333-3053 or www.growingpeacefulfamilies.com. Y