The most obscure wins are in parenthood.
"Don't ever speak to me tonight. Even at dinner. I hate you." These were the words of frustration my four year old said to me when I wouldn't give her another brownie and placed her on the other side of the kitchen so I could wash and sweep the floor. She then marches up to her room and shuts (thankfully not slams) the door. Can you even imagine what this will look like 10 years from now? I tell her, "You can say that, but that makes me sad. You can be mad. I still love you." But you know, as hot headed as she can get, she knows when to take the time, the breaths, the space and hone it back in when she is ready. As frustrating as it can be, I know I can at least celebrate these small wins. She's learning to use her voice and what to do with her anger. It is a constant balance to decide what to police as a parent. Do I tell her I don't want to say those things or let her voice it and hope it subsides. Parenting is a tricky game. Ten