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Printed from https://www.writing.com/main/books/item_id/1993809-Its-all-about-the-Journey/day/3-6-2017
Rated: 18+ · Book · Parenting · #1993809

A continuation of my original blog, "Surviving Motherhood".

Welcome to my world of middle school, high school, and motherhood. The life of a mom is never easy, especially as children grow, and especially when you have a special needs child.

** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only **


March 6, 2017 at 10:35am
March 6, 2017 at 10:35am
#906153
I was always under the impression that my kids were different-they didn't pine to be part of the in crowd, or have what other kids have. They always struck me as the kinds of kids that were grateful for what they had, and were happy with the friends and people that loved them, and didn't need anymore attention or affection than that.

While part of this is true, it wasn't until last night that it actually hit me that they long to belong as well. Not in a brand specific, look specific kind of way, but in similar ways. Journey longs to grow up, and wear grown up things that her friends wear. I just recently purchased her an article of clothing that immediately boosted her confidence, and although at this time she doesn't need the clothing, it made her feel like she's actually the age she is. She feels grown, like she's ready to take on middle school now. She longed to have what her friends have, and need. Although she doesn't need it just yet, it was that longing to have it that set her there.

Last night, Ryan was playing on Steam with some chums on Rocket League. He admitted frustratedly to them that he can't use a game controller to play, because we can't afford one right now. The dejection in his voice as he admitted this had me almost heartbroken. He longs to keep up with his friends, and be able to play as well as they play. Unfortunately, our budget doesn't allow for that, so he has to get along as he is right now. It would be so much easier for him if we could just get him the game controller, but again, that's not how the budget works.

But my question still remains...why do they feel they have to compete or impress these other kids? What is it that makes them feel they need something in order to belong, to be considered normal? I remember when I was in middle school, a friend of mine had an Adidas jacket that I longed for. I never got it, but I tried not to make a big deal out of it. In fact, I don't even think my parents knew, other than the couple of times I mentioned the jacket. Perhaps I notice it more from our kids because I'm very in tune with them? I hate that they have to go through this adversity, but at the same time, it's good for them to realize, you can't just get what you want because your friends have it. Sometimes, it's just not in the budget. Sometimes, it's not a good idea, or it's not something you're ready for yet. I don't want them to start comparing themselves to those that have different life experiences than them. No one has it easy, even if they do get things handed to them all the time.

I know it's hard for them, but I hope they understand and appreciate as they get older. Journey already recognizes and understands the value of a dollar. Ryan, to some extent, does too. He's much more vocal though about the things he wishes he could get, whereas Journey realizes just how much things cost these days. I know right now they're pretty grateful kids who don't ask for much, and I feel that I can't get them what they'd like, but, money dictates at the moment, and outfitting them with clothes that fit and shoes that fit are much more important than game controllers and Nintendo Switches.





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Printed from https://www.writing.com/main/books/item_id/1993809-Its-all-about-the-Journey/day/3-6-2017