Kids rely on their parents for their basic needs. We give them food, shelter, clothes, a safe environment and teach them how to be good human beings. They truly need us. But have you ever thought about how much you may need them in your life? I did, and I soon realized that I desperately need my children. And here's why.
1. They remind me of what is really important
Life can get crazy at times, but my kids give me a daily reminder of what is really important: family. When I get stressed out about something, my kids will bring me back to reality. Giving them a hug, helping them with something or answering a question are simple things I do for them that help remind me that there is nothing better than spending my time and effort on my family. It is easy to get caught up in the daily tasks of life, but all I have to do is spend a little time with my kids to realize they are the most important things in my life.
2. They keep me honest
My kids ask me direct questions and I have promised them that I will always answer honestly. So when they see me with a mouth full of chocolate and ask me what I have, I have to confess. Or if I'm yelling at the traffic and they ask me if I'm yelling because the driver next to me is not very nice, I have to admit it is actually me who is not being very nice. They are really good at holding me accountable for my actions and being honest — not only with them, but with myself as well.
3. They adore me
It is really flattering to have people admire and look up to you as your children do. They are my little entourage that follows me around, they always want to be with me and want to copy everything I do. It sure makes me feel good about myself. When I see them hanging on my every word it reminds me that I need to set a good example for them. I want them to grow into good people, and if I am their head role model, that means I need to be a good person.
4. They make me laugh
Kids really do say — and do — the darndest things; things you never imagined could make you laugh so hard. From pronouncing words in the most adorable way possible, to pretending to give you a check-up, kids can really be quite funny. Watching their imaginations at work is truly amazing, and at times hilarious. My kids really give me pure bliss and make me laugh with all my soul. That kind of laughter is needed on a daily basis.
5. They bring me joy
My kids really do bring me joy. When they learn something new, are kind to one another, give me a hug, say silly things — basically anything they do fills me with joy. It is amazing to see something you have spent time and energy on grow and progress in ways you never imagined. My heart fills with pride for their triumphs, and love during their mistakes. Kids are not perfect, and they need a mix of love and discipline. But in the end, they are just kids and they are not perfect. It is watching them recover from their mistakes and mature into little humans that fills my heart with joy.
6. They love me
Having someone love you so purely is truly amazing. I am far from perfect, yet my kids continue to love me. At times I yell, at times I lose my patience, and at times I am not very nice, yet they still love me. They love me at my best and at my worst. They are a great example to me of what truly loving someone means, mistakes and all. They hold no grudges (at least not yet) and are able to move on in an instant. I need their influence in my life.
Through my kids' influence, example, kindness and love, they make me a better person. Having their presence in my life daily reminds me to continue to strive to be the best version of myself possible.
