Our Personal Journey and Our Parents

Parents are presets. There is no way to alter what was inherited. Yet, with each generation or passing year we have the opportunity to grow and learn more about our past through the people who have provided a pathway through their choices. To accept that is the greatest gift. In some ways, it can also be the most intimidating opportunity because it requires us to see ourselves through their aspirations and intentions. The more we absorb about our parents the more we learn about who we are, and in some cases why we are different. However, the story is better learned. We deserve to know ourselves in truth. Preferably, the exact truth.

Taking time to unlock layers of inherited traditions, identity, and world perceptions can be somewhat unnerving. Challenging who you are in the world is sport. But, altering your position with in your family dynamic can be down right frustrating. Living up to expectations. Overcompensating for predisposed notions (to justify our parent’s ideal perception of who they believe us to be as their children) is as close to unconditional love as some of us will ever know. Convoluted, complex, and slightly rewarding for both sides.

Being open about your personal journey is great. Being available to hear and learn about our parents and their individual journeys can also be great. So, be open to receive the rewards of discovery. Sometimes they’re big. Sometimes they’re small. And sometimes the unnecessary details require our undivided focus to ensure that we catch the little things that may at times inspire us the most. As we continue to fight the good fight of true identity as self-identity (and not living life as our parents) we must remember to respect, honor, and love in the legacy we were assigned to build on.