In recent weeks, like many others, I’ve found myself grappling with feelings of anxiety, frustration, and vulnerability. The news is overwhelming, with significant changes on the horizon that leave many of us feeling unsettled. As we brace ourselves for a new era in leadership, I’ve oscillated between anger, a sense of devaluation, and a persistent feeling of danger—often all at once. My concern for my family’s safety, particularly my children and their friends, weighs heavily on my mind.
I’ve fallen into the trap of an endless news cycle, checking updates obsessively—sometimes even in the middle of the night—sleeping fitfully and waking in a panic. My social media feeds are filled to the brim with alarming headlines, prompting me to gasp in disbelief multiple times a day, “Did they really just say that?” It’s as if the barrage of news has become a source of constant distress.
This emotional turmoil has unfortunately taken a toll on my parenting. I’ve noticed myself snapping at my kids more than I should, losing my patience far too quickly. I feel like I’m not the parent I aspire to be, and while I could attribute it to sleep deprivation or the weight of my worries, that doesn’t excuse my actions. It’s crucial to acknowledge my feelings, yet I must not allow them to overshadow my role as a mother.
In challenging times like these, our children must remain our primary focus. They may not fully understand the complexities of the world around them, but they can certainly sense our unease. They overhear our conversations and absorb the anxiety that fills the air. If they are school-aged, they may encounter distressing discussions or even experience bullying inspired by the current climate.
As we navigate this tumultuous period in our nation’s history, it’s vital to prioritize our kids. Yes, we should remain engaged citizens and advocates for positive change, but never at the cost of our children’s well-being. Family must always come first.
To maintain a healthier balance, I’ve recently made a conscious effort to reduce my media consumption, particularly the deluge of political articles that seem never-ending. I focus on credible sources that offer constructive advice for concerned citizens without getting lost in every sensational headline.
I realize that I need to establish boundaries for my own mental well-being. My children require my presence and support now more than ever. They need me to join them in their play and share in their joy. They deserve my full attention as they ask profound questions about the world, like how big the Earth is and why the moon seems to follow us home at night.
While our nation may seem to be in disarray, our children represent hope for the future. They can inspire healing in us when we take the time to engage with them. So, despite the heaviness of our current reality, it’s essential to view the world through their eyes.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate their trust and wonder. Let’s embrace their laughter, which is a powerful remedy in troubling times. And let’s not forget to balance our awareness of the world with the nurturing our children need from us.
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In summary, while it’s important to stay informed about the state of our nation, let’s ensure we maintain our roles as supportive and engaged parents for our children. Their well-being should always be our priority, even as we confront the challenges of the world outside.