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The first time my mom gave my newborn a bath in a small tub, more of a “palanggana” really, she smiled the sweetest smile. Most children cry during bathtime, mine squealed with delight. The first time she dipped in a pool at one year old, she giggled and paddled. The first time she practiced walking, it was along the shores of Boracay holding her uncle’s hand, occasionally falling on the soft, fine sand flat on her butt.
Last year, we enrolled her in swim class because she really loved the water and we wanted her to be safe whenever she’s in it. But she enjoyed herself and her dad let her take the next class right after. This year, at 5 years old, we were surprised that she learned advanced freestyle, backstroke and the butterfly all in 10 days. She is practically a duck, awkward on land, graceful in the water. I guess this is what parenthood is like. It amazes you every single day because of what your children can do. I never imagined myself watching her do full laps doing the butterfly because all I wanted her to do was to be able to swim to the rails safely.
Let your children breathe, let them play. Listen to what their heart desires. Do not be afraid for them instead let your support be their courage. Allow them to make mistakes, make them learn from them but comfort them too because thy need it . Cheer them on so they keep on going but let them stop when they are no longer having fun. One day, when you least expect it, your caterpillar will come out a butterfly and no one else’s heart will be fuller than yours.
Sole Heiress 