I had written a whole essay, but I’ll just say this instead:

It’s okay to acknowledge the long-term impact our households had on us growing up. That doesn't mean we don't love our parents - it’s not about blame or resentment. It’s about understanding.

Most parents did their best with what they knew - some were flawless, some were so caught in their own pain that they passed it on, even when they didn’t mean to. And some, did things no child should ever have to go through.

It can be complicated, but is real, and it all shaped us.

At bird's eye view, I remember my childhood to be happy, but don't start digging! 😂

I’ve heard people say, “becoming a parent helps you fix yourself.” And sure, for some, that’s true. But in the wrong hands, that approach doesn’t work. I know from experience not everyone changes when they have children.

One changes, one becomes better, when one wants to change - no more, no less.

Bottom line is, we didn’t choose the environment we were raised in, but now we get to choose differently for ourselves, our surroundings, and those who'll come after us - acknowledging that impact and taking the hang of it, is a big part of it 💜

#coffeechain #coffeethought