So the other night when we were having our Table Time with the family and we decided to delve into the uncharted waters of our children’s thoughts and emotions. It was a typical evening, laughter, interruptions, and the usual chaos that comes with family discussions. Little did we know that beneath the surface of these seemingly ordinary moments, a profound revelation awaited us.
We opted for one of the new conversation starters under the heading: Families with older children. The chosen question, “What is something that you wish others knew about you,” seemed innocent enough. We anticipated the usual responses, perhaps a few lighthearted quirks or surface-level revelations. However, what unfolded surprised both my wife and me, shaking the foundations of what we thought we knew about our children.
As our kids began to speak, their words carried an unexpected weight. In those moments of vulnerability, we discovered facets of their personalities that had eluded our awareness. It dawned on us that, as parents, we might have unknowingly slipped into complacency, assuming we had a full understanding of our children. It’s a trap many parents fall into – we think we know our kids inside out, but the truth is, they are constantly evolving.
My son’s revelation about being a source of encouragement to his brother caught me off guard. I had always seen their playful banter, but this deeper layer of support showcased a side of him I hadn’t fully appreciated. My daughter’s desire to speak more highlighted a longing we had overlooked, and my other son’s quiet belief in God brought a profound sense of spirituality we hadn’t acknowledged.
These unexpected revelations prompted us to question if, as parents, we had misjudged or misunderstood certain aspects of our children’s lives. The answers were enlightening and humbling, urging us to reassess our perceptions and delve into conversations we might have otherwise neglected.
Our relationships with our children have now reached a new depth, and our eyes have been opened to each other’s inner worlds. It’s easy to fall into patterns of assumption and overlook the dynamic nature of our children’s personalities. The experience taught us the importance of active listening and taking the time to truly understand our kids.
In response to the question, I admitted, “I wish people knew my potential and would trust me. Sometimes I feel like some people don’t believe in my potential. That hurts sometimes.” The vulnerability of this confession created a space for honest, heartfelt discussions, fostering a stronger bond between us.
If you haven’t tried asking your family a similar question, I encourage you to do so. You might be surprised by the depth of their responses and the untapped reservoirs of understanding waiting to be explored. Taking the time to allow our children to speak and genuinely listening opens the door to a wealth of revelations that can reshape the fabric of our relationships. So go ahead, embark on this journey of discovery with your family, and let the surprises unfold.
