An Epiphany

I am a parent.

I should be used to that by now. Yet sometimes (heck, most of the time) it still feels so unbelievable. So magical. So overwhelming.

At Jackson's 9-month check up, the nurse asked all of the obligatory developmental questions. Is he sitting up without assistance? Does he pull himself up to a standing position? I was able to answer yes to all of them. Until she asked if he waved bye-bye.

It was really no big deal. The nurse made no mention of it. I thought nothing of it. I know very well that all kids develop on their own schedule and I make a conscious effort not to put much stock in what Jackson is doing compared to other kids (whether he be ahead of the curve or behind it).

It wasn't until a couple of nights later, while laying in bed, that I really thought about it. And I felt horrible. Of course Jackson doesn't know how to wave bye-bye. I haven't taught him.

This really isn't about bye-bye. But that was the catalyst for me. The everyday example that brought to light the enormous responsibility Drew & I have to our son. Taking care of the needs of an infant (feed, clothe, diaper, love) pale in comparison to all the lessons we have yet to teach him. The behaviors we must model for him. The example we must set.

We'll learn as we go. All three of us.

For now, we'll start with waving bye-bye.

Wow.

I am a parent.