I Need a Hero!

Does a child really need a hero?  Brave, strong and smart characters abound in children’s make-believe worlds.  But, what about the real world?  With the COVID19 pandemic that seems like a silly question and an understatement!  The recognition of everyday heroes is making the news daily.  My husband has become my hero when he volunteers to glove and mask up to go grocery shopping because I am feeling nervous to do it myself!

Heroes are usually role models that people emulate because they have accomplished, survived or overcome something in their lives.  They help us understand the world around us and teach us important coping skills that can help us live better lives.  Children may learn about extraordinary, compassionate and courageous heroes but, who are these people to a young child?

Let’s face it, changes in life can be hard and unsettling especially for children.  Now more than ever parents need to inspire calm and show their children how to face and overcome adversity and obstacles in their life journey.

Heroes emerge in tough times and deal with situations in positive ways.  These are unpresented times we are all going through that will likely have a lasting impact on our children.  Parents who are staying calm and patient while being resourceful will be the rock that they can cling to or the anchor that will keep them from being swept away with their feelings of uncertainty, anxiety and fear.  The truth is looking back on these COVID times most parents will discover that they have been, perhaps without being celebrated or praised, the real unsung heroes in their child’s life!

I am proud of all three of my adult daughters who are now brave essential service front line public health workers going to work each day during this pandemic.  They have grown up to be dedicated, competent and resourceful individuals in each of their chosen professions.  I can no longer keep them safe on that rock.  They have climbed down and are weathering the storm of this crisis along with their colleagues.  At my age now roles have been reversed and I am the one sheltering at home trying to stay healthy.

It has been my own personal experience that you can’t sugar coat life.  I learned to be a stronger and more resilient adult because I had to face difficult times and loss when I was a child.  Being around others who are experiencing life’s challenges can be a powerful and influential learning experience.  Children who are too sheltered may find it harder to cope with adversity as adults.

Life is not always going to be a “piece of cake” that is wonderful, kind and fair.  Children will unfortunately be dealt bad cards, given lemons and must cope with tough situations and challenges.  They will encounter difficult people and suffer disappointment, loss and adversity.  That is part of life!

Participating together in those defining moments within a family can be valuable learning experiences and help prepare children for their own future life.  Learning to live with the COVID19 virus pandemic will be another chapter in everyone’s family story.  Learning to remain positive, patient, compassionate, committed, resourceful and resilient will lead our sons and daughters towards stronger character development and more stable mental and physical health and wellness.

I have been seeing younger friends and relatives posting the wonderful things that they have had the opportunity to do with their children during this extended homebound time.  Parents everywhere are having to assume multiple roles as mom, dad, playmate, teacher and faithful friend.

A favorite quote that I have used before in my blog expresses in hindsight what I am trying to convey.  “The point is not to do remarkable things, but to do ordinary things with the conviction of their immense importance.”  Isn’t that what parenting is all about regardless of whether there is a pandemic.  Parents do what they need to do so that their family can survive and stay healthy.

 These are confusing and stressful times.  As families self-isolate at home trying to stay healthy hang in there!  You don’t need to wear a big S for super on your chest.  Just stay strong in a gentle way.  It may be the simple little daily things that show your strength, courage and special skills!

It will be difficult and demanding at times, but you can be your child’s biggest hero!  When times are tough your children need to know that they can depend on you to be their rock and that you will not let them stumble and fall.  Your children are watching you and learning so don’t underestimate the significant role model you play as a parent.  YES, they do need a Hero like YOU!

Thank you for joining me.

Karen Boschee