Peaceful Parent - 1

I have considered writing "The Way of the Peaceful Parent' for several years now. I have a detailed outline for the manuscript and have some material on file. However, the book is a based on my own search for peace - and while I hope to have some end to the search I recognize that the way of the peaceful parent is a journey. Therefore, I have decided to begin blogging about the journey and not worry about an end (or a completed manuscript). 

I have decided to challenge myself with a weekly blog entry every Monday morning specifically addressing the journey towards peace. Peace of mind. Peaceful action and certainly peaceful parenting are the objectives. I'm not sure that anyone actually reads my blog. Perhaps a few friends graciously read the blog every now and again. This makes it somewhat easier (or at least appear safer) to write about the journey here. 

I remember sitting on the beach under an umbrella with my newborn sleeping peacefully while my husband and older son played in the water. I had this unbelievably anxious feeling. Intellectually I realized I should be relaxed and enjoying the beach. I used what cognitive therapy strategies I thought might help - change your thoughts and change your experience. Sounds easy right now. But at the time, I simply could not make myself enjoy the moment. I decided that day to actively work towards a peaceful existence. It is one thing to want to be a peaceful person. It is, at least in my mind, even more essential to be a peaceful parent. These babies are looking to us to guide them. I intend to guide them to the best of my ability. I understand that I will not be perfect. I accept that some days will be more challenging than others. I have come to realize I will often not have an answer. However, my goal is to reach for excellence not perfection. 

My children are now 8 and 5. I am on the peaceful parent journey. I get closer to where I want to be with each daily practice. I will share (and possibly explode) every Monday a small piece of the journey as it continues to unfold. I look forward to comments from others on their own journey.

Namaste'

Dr. Kelli