The Pregnancy Journal - Question #2

Question #2
What were the best things your parents did as parents?

As I type this, Steven is snoring (softly) beside me so this is strictly my own answer.

Among many, many, many things, the best thing my parents did for me was to raise me within very strict, defined parameters. It was always clear what was acceptable (behaviour, clothing, speech...you name it) and what was not. They were so consistent so it was very easy for me to decide between right and wrong. Why on earth would I want to do something rebellious if it only meant bad things? That being said, of course I did bad things but I was never judged or questioned about the decisions that I made, only punished. If I did good things, only rewarded. Not a lot of discussion ensued. My dad was a psych major so maybe he was thinking of Pavlov's dog... Hahaha

I guess it's like this: They made up the rules, I played the game and sometimes I'd pass Go and sometimes I'd go to jail and miss a turn. It was what it was and I hope to be able to do the same. Offer consistency, clearly defined guidelines for life and continued support - without criticism or "advice" - regardless of my decisions.

Then again, maybe I'll just buy my children's complacency through technology and offerings of cash.