My wonderful children

the other day I was taking a walk with a friend, talking about our respective children, all grown. I told her that my kids have become exactly who I'd hoped they'd be.

What surprised me is that while one of her children, in his early 30's is accomplished and well on his way in his chosen, well-respected profession, the other son, while still accomplished, is not in a profession she'd have chosen. Nor is it something society would consider a "success".

Now while I know we all wish our children the best, I've noticed that some parents do not consider them a success unless they follow a prescribed path. Be it through $$, or the career they choose. But I ask you, is being a lawyer any better than a garbage collector, is being a doctor any better than an accountant, or is a banker better than a painter??? Most people would say yes.

But my criteria has always been - what kind of person are they?? Are they caring and compassionate; do they have a good sense of humor; do they want to spend time with their family? Is money the be all and end all - without thought of others?

I taught my children that no matter what they do in their work life, if they are the best people they can be then I will love them no matter what.

And it turns out, I was right - my children ARE the best! They are funny, caring, loving, compassionate - they care about not just their family but about their friends and others in their life.

I have succeeded as a mother - what more could I ask for?