Day Fifty Three: It Takes a Village

It is a cool, cloudy Friday, the kind that would be perfect to take a nap. Alas, the elementary school has water problems, so school is unexpectedly closed. No nap today. I am fortunate to have only that disappointment. I don't have to be anywhere, so I don't have to worry about child care. Some of my friends and neighbors are not so lucky. So, in keeping with my theme, I have offered to take in one of the boys' friends for the day. In doing so, I realized that it really does take a village to raise a child.

So many people have an impact on the upbringing of our children. The parents, of course, but there are so many more. In our family the list is virtually endless: grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, family friends, neighbors, teachers, school staff, coaches, cub scout leaders, babysitters, bus drivers and our pediatrician all have contributed to the little people my children now are who they will evolve into in the future. So far, I have had wonderful luck in that each and every person that has spent quality time with my children have made a positive impact. I have had no cause for concern or worry, at least not yet.

I am sure that the village concept will take on a whole new meaning when my children are older. Teenage boys are notorious for their unwillingness to communicate with parents. The monosyllabic responses, the closed bedroom doors, the moody silences will all drive me to distraction. That's when I am sure I will be grateful for the eyes and ears of the community we have built around us to clue us in to the influences of which we will need to be wary. It will also be a time when teachers and coaches can have greater immediate sway than parents. It is the influence of peers that I dread the most. The trends, the experimentation and temptations are enough to turn my hair white just thinking about it. As they say, "buckle up!"

Until that time, I am very content with our village. My boys are boisterous, inquisitive, bright, exasperating, active, funny, annoying and rambunctious children. In another words, they are completely normal. We are all doing our best to insure their educational and moral growth continues on the right path while keeping them as safe as possible. I am very thankful for all in our village and I hope my contribution has been as welcome as that of on the others around me. Remember to be mindful that it really does take a village to raise a child. No matter your age or parenting status it only takes a minimal amount of effort to make a lasting impression.