My teenage son who dabbles in writing has entered a writing contest. And being somewhat of a writer, I’ve offered to help him. Once again, I have to share how absolutely and wonderfully and enjoyably cathartic it is as a mother to share talents with my children. I see where he started both with writing and reading—his first few stories, so hilarious and dotted with keeper gems with titles like “The Ferocious Fudge Monster” that I was compelled to keep them—and see now that he not only has plot lines but includes foreshadowing. We’re able to talk about these things, with the proper names, and adding in favorite author examples of who does them well. He trusted me with his first version for the First Chapter contest—a story is such a private, vulnerable thing—and he even allowed me to make suggestions. The other night he went so far as to say, “Hey Mom, your ideas were actually pretty good.” I thought I’d burst.
And today, we are headed out for a “Writing Date” of just him and me and the library—writing, exchanging, and revising.
Does it get any better?
What talents do you have, right now, that perhaps you haven’t shared as openly with your children as you could? What talents do they have that you enjoy but possibly haven’t offered to share so as not to encroach their personal space?
I see moms who sing that share what they know with their children (both the willing and sort of willing)—things such as techniques, poise, and confidence. Other moms who share their love of sewing or quilting, sports and coaching their kids’ teams, cake decorating or house design.
I honestly feel that when we mothers open ourselves up to our children through talents and hobbies and interests, our children not only see us as real people, but suddenly find connections in ways they hadn’t considered. And we as the moms get to support and encourage our children in specific and connected ways that we couldn’t have imagined. The experiences we have, the bonds we create, these are all memory makers that we can enjoy now and possibly build on as they grow.
So just for today, consider what talents you and your children have and/or share, and how you can better connect through them. For myself, not only is my son sharing this interest, but one of my daughters has begun to develop it too. And we’re already planning her Writing Night with pad, paper, and a Cold Stone for good measure.
Best,
Connie
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Love this idea! Thanks Connie!