Knowing when not to parent

Because I grew up in such an unstable environment I tend to bend over backwards for my kids hoping that they will never feel the insecurities and heartache that plagued myself and many of my siblings growing up.

“Sometimes being a good parent is knowing when not to parent. You have to step out of the way and let life happen to your kids.”
~*Norah Walker - from the first series of ‘Brothers and Sisters*~

Oh, how this struck a chord with me. We are so busy trying to protect them and yet sometimes we have to let them make their own mistakes and then support them as they try to work their way back. Learning as they go. It is so hard and yet so important. It is the art of letting them go, a little bit at a time. Trusting in both their common sense and what you have managed to instill in them and at the same time letting them know that you are always there for them.

By continually protecting them from the "bad things in life" are we ill preparing them to deal with the dangers of the outside world? Learning how to deal with life’s rougher elements and unpleasantness's developed in me emotional resilience, hardiness, empathy and a talent for serendipity!

I don’t have all the answers sigh! I’m just asking the questions?