The Following is a letter to parents. I think it is important to honor and acknowledge those that are raising children during this pandemic.

 

Dear Parents and Caregivers of children,

 

Did you imagine that life would be what it is today? I mean a year later and you’re still here!! The sacrifices you’ve made for your children have been incredible. The hell that you have gone through and you’ve put your children first. I know it’s been hard. As a parent myself, it has been challenging in many different ways. Canceled vacations, constantly being hypervigilant about the virus, social injustice and the recent political climate, homeschooling children with very little support and instruction—these are some the challenges that you’ve encountered and endured. Yes, endured. Because you’re still here.

It’s been confusing at times. Are we wearing one mask or two? Are my children’s teachers being vaccinated? Is it really safe to return to school? Can they play with their friends? WHEN. WILL. THINGS. BE. NORMAL. AGAIN. You are the real heroes. Thank you for working from home to make sure your kids have what they need. Thank you for quitting a job to stay at home. Thank you for holding space for your kids and knowing that they are struggling and don’t know how to articulate their struggles. Thanks for giving them a break when they have been frustrated, overwhelmed and desperate for connection. You have been gracious at times and overwhelmed yourself and yet, have endured. At times you may have wanted to give up and maybe you have in your own way and…you are still here.

The phrase, “we are all doing the best we can”, as pissed as that may make you, is true. And…you are still here. You have been caught in the middle of many things in the last year and you made sure to provide and support your kids in the best way possible. The tearful nights, the frustrations, the confusion, the anxiety, just know that it’s all good. You have may have regrets about how you’ve conducted yourself or have talked to your children at times and it’s okay. You’re still here. When your children grow in age and understanding they will see that what you have done was incredibly challenging. Just know that as humans we make mistake and may have regrets but there is an opportunity for growth in all our experiences.

More vaccinations, the recent stimulus bill being passed, children returning to school for a few weeks before summer break can offer hope and maybe even a respite from what life has been in the last year. My hope is that you find ways to practice grace and to take care of yourself.

Sincerely and with grace and love,

Louisville Health & Healing