Co-Parenting

Truth of,

Raquel White

“Be wise as serpents, but innocent as doves.”

My truth about co–parenting…

I took my focus off of how to “fix” the other party and placing blame became a thing of the past. I transferred that energy into becoming the very best mom and parent partner I could be. I make it a point to sacrifice and compensate so that my son receives the most out of his young life and avoids exposure to things that could hinder him. I realized I couldn’t protect him from everything and that it was more important to prepare his mind for the inevitable.

Growing up, I witnessed wonderful co-parenting between my mom and dad. I was exposed to some not-so-peaceful relationships as well. My mother would tell me: “It may get worse before it gets better. Always remain innocent.” I wasn’t always non-confrontational or mentally prepared to respond to negativity in peace. That changed during the process of co parenting for me.

I knew the kind of life I wanted my children to enjoy and the kind of people I wanted them to become. I trust me and the way that I influence them, but i don’t underestimate their ability to be affected by other sources. I needed to protect my baby’s peace. I studied and took co–parenting classes. I sought a better understanding of early childhood education and brain development. Learning about the effects that an unhealthy co–parenting relationship can have on children, helped me to see where I could improve as an individual.

I practice resilience and work hard to hold on to my character but I have fallen short. I found myself justifying my negative reactions and knew I had to change no matter what. I decided I would follow through with kindness and understanding in these situations. I was expecting the same in return, and when things didn’t go the way I thought, I felt defeated. I changed my perception by simply removing expectations while leaving room for hope. I still choose love and to be kind and true with my words and actions. I do it for me. MY peace. My kids are watching too. I care about what they see when they look at their mother and the character they will possess as they grow.