The Mirror

Focus, or lack thereof, has plagued me my whole life. To stay attentive to things is a monumental task. It is coming full circle. One of the things that has been striking with parenting children is that you really do see yourself in your kids. Watching Nathan(4yrs) develop has been, in some ways, like looking in a mirror. He can be a very challenging kid! His high level of intensity coupled with large amounts of energy are amazing. I remember visiting with a school counselor in the 9th grade because I was struggling in some classes. I distinctly remember her asking me if I had ever been tested for ADD/ADHD. I said no and never returned to see her, and found a way to make it through my classes. As a freshman in college, struggling in English Literature, I was sent to the Learning Center and was found to have symptoms of Dyslexia. I never went back, thinking that I have to find a way to maneuver through. I have totally dismissed my issues until recently watching my son, and saying, "I know where he gets that." Although he definitely has more energy than I remember having, I pray for God's grace daily for Nathan to thrive as a little guy and for us to parent him with patience and affirmation.