In the 1970s, my parents embraced a lifestyle that leaned heavily toward natural health and wellness. While they weren’t full-fledged hippies, they certainly adopted many of those principles. My dad, a chiropractor, was an early advocate for holistic living long before it became mainstream. As I navigate parenting my now two-year-old son, I find myself struggling to live up to their ideals.
Is it simpler to pursue an organic lifestyle today, with the rise of health-focused grocery chains like Whole Foods, or was it easier for them in a slower-paced era with fewer distractions (looking at you, social media)? One thing is certain: my parents were champions of holistic living, while I often feel like I’m taking shortcuts. Perhaps it’s natural to diverge from our parents’ values to some extent, and maybe that’s perfectly fine.
Here are a few ways I’ve fallen short compared to my parents:
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Home Gardening
My parents cultivated a vast garden overflowing with tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, and more. I seem to remember it being about an acre, with my dad using a tractor for watering and harvesting while my mom spent countless hours canning the fruits of their labor. In stark contrast, I once attempted to grow parsley in a pot, which promptly withered away, leading me to abandon any hopes of gardening. Instead, I rely on our local grocery store for produce, often settling for non-organic options due to cost. Sorry, Mom and Dad. -
Vaccination Choices
My parents opted out of vaccinating my brother and me due to their distrust in the medical system long before vaccination became a divisive issue. While I respect their stance, navigating the education system without vaccinations was a monumental challenge. My husband and I faced a similar dilemma, ultimately deciding to immunize our son, balancing medical advice and social considerations. The initial plan to space out vaccinations only led to more frequent doctor visits. Now, we follow the standard vaccine schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Sorry, Mom and Dad. -
Sugar Consumption
Processed sugar was practically forbidden in our household. Breakfast consisted of plain shredded wheat sweetened only with a drizzle of honey, and dessert was often a simple piece of fruit. I still vividly remember the one New Year’s Eve when we toasted with 7UP, and I thought I had reached dessert heaven. Fast forward to college, and I indulged in a free-for-all of sweets, gaining the notorious freshman 15. Now, I allow my son to enjoy Cheerios, birthday cupcakes, and the occasional juice box without guilt. Sorry, Mom and Dad. -
Dairy Decisions
In Wisconsin, the dairy capital, my parents rejected cow’s milk, believing humans shouldn’t consume a product meant for calves. Instead, we drank rice milk, which I later found out was high in sugar. After learning about the hormonal effects of soy milk and the low protein in almond milk, I’ve succumbed to serving my son cow’s milk, despite my reservations. Sorry, Mom and Dad.
I truly appreciate the healthy foundation my parents provided, instilling in me a consciousness about what I consume and what I feed my child. I realize many kids grow up without organic foods and turn out just fine. In fact, they lack the “organic guilt” that can be burdensome, which might be a healthier mindset overall.
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In summary, while I may not embody the holistic ideals of my parents, I am learning to navigate my own path in parenting without the weight of their expectations.