Guilt is associated with parenting in my mind.  Never do I feel that emotion more strongly then when I drift into morbid reflection on the mistakes I’ve made as a parent.

The kids don’t want to hear it either and I don’t blame them.  I made a mistake and what they want to hear is that I understand them and by my actions will do things differently next time.

My guilt led me to some inner dialogue.  Like what benefit would my children gain from being subjected to my guilty feelings?  Isn’t that my job to work out?  I certainly don’t want their guilt and I simply deplore the word “I’m sorry”.

What I want is for them to correct their behavior.  What they want is for me to apologize by my actions.   It goes both ways.  They don’t want my heavy guilt. They want a joyful mom.  A mom who seeks to understand them.  A mom who drops the need to be understood.  A mom who is clear so they have a beacon of light for their journey.

So self – get over it – love you and forgive yourself for your humanity.  You blew it.  Guess what – everyone survived.  You might blow it again to!  Guess what welcome to being human.  Now go be useful and do it different if that old way no longer works!

Today is a great day to practice some more.  Take it easy.  Lighten up.  Laugh at your folly.  Amend your actions.  Maybe it’s time for some you time.  Go indulge – without guilt – so you can fill up your emotional bank account!  You can’t give on empty people!!!!