With Gratitude to our Children

Coral Gables Counseling Center - Wednesday, December 18, 2024
By Anastasiya Rusilka, M.A., CMC, ACC.

Being a mom is one of life’s greatest blessings and, simultaneously, one of its greatest responsibilities. As mothers, we step into this role with hopes, dreams, and a profound sense of purpose.  We envision ourselves as guides, nurturers, and sources of wisdom for our children.

Our days often overflow with endless to-do lists and concerns about the future. Amid it all, we may lose sight of who we are and forget how to truly have fun. Yet, when we pause and embrace the present moment as our children do, we discover joy in the simplest things—a smile, a giggle, or a shared cuddle.

boys playing

Gratitude has the power to transform fleeting moments into lasting treasures. Instead of dwelling on what’s unfinished or imperfect, we can thank our children for teaching us to find beauty in life’s simplest pleasures.

Our children are, in many ways, our greatest teachers. Through their natural joy, presence, and honesty, they remind us how to live fully. This holiday season let’s dedicate time to honoring our children—not just as the recipients of our care, but as guides who inspire us to reconnect with our inner child and rediscover the magic of having fun.

Here’s a practice to help you deepen this connection:

Set aside a journal specifically for this exercise. Over the next week or two, write down three specific things you are grateful for about your child each day. Be as detailed as possible. For example, instead of saying, “I’m grateful my child is wonderful,” try, “I’m grateful for my child’s smile” or “I’m grateful for the conversation we had during dinner.”

Next to each entry, reflect on why these moments happened. Understanding the “why” will help you focus on creating and experiencing more of these beautiful moments.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Children want the same thing we want – to laugh, to be challenged, to be entertained and delighted.” Dr. Seuss

KIDS PLAYING WITH COMPUTER