One Thing We Never Outgrow

I have come to the firm conclusion that, no matter how old I get, I will never not need and want my parents. I am certainly writing this from my perspective, but I don't think I'm alone in this.

I will always want my parents' advice (preferably solicited. But sometimes I need a good, unasked for smack on the back of the head or firm talking-to.) Whether it's big or little, I use my parents as sounding boards more often than not. It's great to run things by people who know me well, love me anyways, and understand when to speak and when to just let me ramble.

I will always want their affection. Sometimes I still wish I could curl up on their laps like my little guy does with me. But I still cherish their hugs and kisses. I don't remember if I was unkind as a teen or if I offended them by seeming off-put by physical contact. I know sometimes we, as idiots, go through silly phases. And I certainly hope I did not. But I know now, especially living hundreds of miles away, how much I do appreciate that I still have two parents to hug. And I want to do that as often as possible.

I will always look to them for approval and affirmation. I am 33-years-old. I know I have caused them heartache, hurt, and disappointment many times in those 33 years. But I also know it makes me sad when I do disappoint them. I also know that in those same 33 years, I have received words of affirmation, love, encouragement, support, and approval much more often than rebukes. And I am so beyond blessed and grateful. When they tell me what a good wife or mom I am, it brings tears to my eyes. They still have such power in my life and it means so much to hear.

If you are a parent, regardless if your child is 1 or 70, guide them, love them, hug them, affirm them. A child will always need it, even if they don't recognize it at the time. And a child will appreciate it, at some point.

If you have your parents, listen to them. They know more than you think they do. And probably more than you (I know my parents do!) Love and hug them. For however long you have them. Trust me, it'll never be long enough. Believe them when they tell you what a fantastic person you are. They had a lot to do with it. Thank them. Because good, bad, or ugly, whether they were perfect parents or the worst ones you could imagine, they still shaped you. You may have chosen to emulate them or take the opposite route, but thank them anyways.

We never outgrow our parents. Whether we marry or not, become parents or not, even become the caregivers of our parents; they are still our parents. They always will be.