💛 Learning Together: Reflections on Parenting, Struggle, and the Sacred Teachings
Parenting is never easy. Blended families, trauma histories, and co-parenting struggles only add to the mix—but we show up anyway. We keep learning, trying, and growing. And that, in itself, is sacred work.
Recently, I’ve been reflecting on some of the patterns I'm seeing in our home. These aren’t just “bad behaviors” or parenting challenges—they are signs of deeper emotional needs. And they remind me of the teachings I strive to pass down, even when it feels like we’re stumbling along the way.
🪶 Aurora: Holding Too Much
Aurora, our youngest daughter, is carrying more than any ten-year-old should. She’s shared with her sister Maddisen that she lies to both of her parents and has asked Madd to keep secrets—serious ones, about adult things. That’s not a child's burden to carry, and I don’t believe she’s doing it to manipulate or divide. She’s doing it because she’s scared, uncertain, and trying to keep the peace.
She’s also been sneaking food and has told us she doesn’t feel motivated to do anything. She says she’s bored and lonely at her mom’s house, so she just eats and plays on the laptop all day. Her body is changing, her energy is low, and her spark seems dimmed. It’s hard to watch, and we’re trying to support her without adding shame or pressure.
From a cultural lens, I know that these behaviors aren’t just about discipline—they’re cries for Love, Truth, and Balance. I want to show her Respect and Honesty, while also teaching her that she doesn't have to please everyone to be loved.
🍂 Autumn: Growing Pains & Small Victories
Autumn has had her share of struggles too. After losing access to her phone, she told us she felt like she had no motivation to do anything. And for a while, it really showed. But recently, she started to shake off that “poor me” feeling and has been doing more schoolwork and taking steps in the right direction.
It’s been a delicate balance. We know that technology can be a lifeline for connection, but also a distraction. We’re adjusting her phone settings so she can have it back—but with boundaries that support her growth.
She mentioned that her recent visit with her mom went okay, but that there were passive-aggressive comments like “Too bad you weren’t with me.” And while Autumn wants connection, it seems like the draw is more about clothes or gifts than emotional closeness. Still, I remind myself that Honesty and Humility often grow slowly, over time.
🌱 We're Trying—And That Matters
Some days it feels like we’re doing everything “wrong.” But then I remember: We’re not trying to raise perfect children. We’re trying to raise whole human beings—children who know what it means to be loved, seen, and safe. And that requires modeling the Seven Sacred Teachings even when things are messy and hard.
Love in the way we listen without judgment.
Respect in the way we honor each child’s feelings.
Courage in the way we keep showing up even when it’s tough.
Honesty in the way we name what’s not working.
Wisdom in the way we seek support and share tools.
Humility in the way we admit we don’t have all the answers.
Truth in the way we reflect, grow, and keep trying.
So no, we don’t always get it right. But we keep learning. And in that learning, I believe healing happens—for us, for our children, and for the generations to come.
