Being a parent is one of life’s greatest joys. And while every brand new parent may be proud and excited, I imagine they are also scared. I know I was. Having the responsibility of this little human being seemed overwhelming.

I am blessed to be the mother of two sons. Not only did I not know much about parenting, I didn’t know much about living with boys. I had no brothers so living with a husband and two sons definitely had a learning curve. Bob and I raised our boys in a loving Christian home. We taught them with Christian values, disciple and good example. When they were young and would get mad at me, I used to tell them, “Our job is to raise you boys to become responsible grown men who contribute to society in a positive way.”

There are so many thoughts, beliefs, philosophies and methods of how to parent. Regardless of what parenting style is chosen, I believe the one thing we Moms have in common is worry. We worry about our children from their conception until we leave this life. No matter how old they are I worry about my sons. I will always be their Mom.

But now that they are grown men, how do I parent? How do I respect who they are while still trying to guide?  Am I saying too much or not enough? I struggle with these questions often because every situation that arises is different. Like most families, our sons have very individual personalities. What I say or do for one may not help the other. My biggest questions are “Do I have the right to parent them? Am I needed?” When I think about what being a Mom means to me this is what I believe. It is unconditional love, it is offering guidance, it’s always having faith in my sons, it’s being there for them when they need to talk or even just a hug.

Parenting my sons as adults requires me to have different skills and tactics than when they were under the age of 18. But one action that is always age appropriate is prayer. When I doubt myself, when I don’t know what to do or how to help, I pray. I pray for them every day. Always have—-always will. While I sometimes miss those days when they were young and needed me, I love the adult relationship we now share. I hope and pray they still need me. Whether we are alike in personality or tend to be different, I respect who they are and try to parent accordingly. 

And I am a proud Mom who can say they have become responsible grown men who contribute to society in a positive way!

Father in heaven, Please guide and protect our children always.

“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6

“As one who his mother comforts, so I will comfort you…” Isaiah 66:13

For years people have asked me to pray for them and their intentions. I feel honored and humbled with these requests. If you have a concern weighing heavy on your heart, please connect with me on my Prayer Request page (found in the Main Menu). I would be honored to add you to my prayers. I promise your words will be kept confidential.

If my story resonates with you I would love to hear your comments below.