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The struggle of a Mother
By sandi | February 26, 2008
Annie is so terribly independent. She thinks she is invincible and is not afraid of much. She thinks she will always land on her feet and can conquer anything. Later in her life, if she makes it there, this will be a huge blessing to her. She will be so strong, she will never give up and she will make things happen.
Of course this is terribly hard on me as her Mother. Not because I am not willing to allow her to experience the world, but because I am in fear that she may not make it to the rest of her life. I have always felt this way about her. She has always pushed the limits of what she can do and has succeeded even if it means a serious injury to her. I have always felt that her inattention to detail would somehow be her demise. I cannot bear the thought of that. I cannot bear the thought that I cannot help her to understand this.
I know I cannot hold onto her forever, but it seems a serious lesson is missing for her. When she was younger I just thought that she would grow out of it, that common sense would come to her at some point. She is now just about four and a half and it is still not there. The other girls have the lesson so obviously I have taught it.
If anyone has any idea how to put the fear of death into a 4.5 year old I would love the help. We are currently just reminding her constantly. Each time she injures herself due to recklessness we discuss how she was being careless and that is how she got hurt. We are hoping that this is enough. I will be keeping much tighter reins on her until I feel like she can be alone without me. Those are the only things I know to do.
Topics: Annie | 4 Comments »
February 27th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
I know that this is a hard thing for you to deal with. It has always bothered you deep in your heart. I know that Annie is somewhat of a dare devil, but her not understanding should come in time. It is just nice to know that you are able to protect her at this point. She is a wonderful little girl and her spark is what makes her “her”!!! I have no great advice. I am just hoping that you will figure it out so that my little Abi can learn from you—she always has been the most like Annie! Love and blessings to all!
February 27th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
Hi! We are a CHI family also!Our dossier has been in Ethiopia since December 11th 2007,so we are patiently(cough) waiting for a referral of siblings.I’ll have to read earlier issues of your blog to find out more about your journey.
February 27th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
Sounds just like her father, still. LOL!
February 27th, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Exactly, Michelle. Now you see why I am so afraid!!!