A free night away

When was the last time we had a free night?

I just asked my wife. She had to think long and hard about the answer but, it was exactly 364 days ago.

Tonight, our daughter and dog is with the in-laws and we are off to Helsinki with no plans past that. Perhaps dinner somewhere would be on the cards.

After a discussion, we have been to the movies three times on top of the night off last year so, 4 nights in 2.5 where we have been away from her and only one of those was where it was an overnight trip. When does she go off to use university?

I really can't complain though as our daughter has close to the most awesome personality a child could have and, she is incredibly intelligent. I hope I don't break her by being me.

I was talking to a client yesterday and he was telling about his 1 year old as the proud father he is. It is amazing the differences between children and the various strengths they have and, it is incredible how every parent thinks their kid is special.

They are all special of course and every parent should treat them as such. These days I feel that many people are worrying more about their own freedoms while letting their children fall into the various cages society has developed for them. I am biased in this view of course and there is a happy medium somewhere, most just don't know what it is.

Perhaps it is like food or Netflix series, people binge parent. Too much excess, too much organisation, too much entertainment - not enough care, understanding and time spent investing into another person. Paying for a piano lesson or sports training isn't what makes a good parent in my view. There has to be connection, there has to be togetherness.

Yet, all need their own space too don't they? For our daughter, I find space for her to be her, space for her to take responsibility and make her own decisions and, space for her to live with the consequences of them. I am lucky with her though because for well over a year now I have been able to discuss at length and depth with her and she has been able to discuss with us.

It makes a difference when there is the conversation between and she likes to talk as well as being highly curious and attentive to her surroundings. As said, she is awesome.

But tonight, her grandparents can play and answer the questions and my wife and I can wander around Helsinki doing as we choose.

Maybe this is needed too.

Taraz
[ a Steem original ]
_{(posted from phone on a train)}