Unbelievable Truth

The following is not meant to judge, blame or offend.  It is merely a reflection of my evolution to an older, wiser woman

The truth is not always convenient

Each perspective can appear different

When each party chooses to stand their ground

Anger and resentment often abound

As I child, I thought my mom a monster

As a teen, I believed I hated her

I was sure my punishments were unjust

Since I’m adopted, she must hate my guts

Enlightenment came as a child one day

My partner’s daughter stepped on my pathway

I was ill prepared for a parent role

And failed miserably, or so I’m told

I birthed one girl, adopted another

To each, my title held the word “mother”

As time passed, I understood my mom more

Becoming a mom had evened the score

My girls have each come to me as adults

Feeding me servings of parenting guilt

I want to dispute each one’s perspective

But realize that my words aren’t effective

Recently, in our phone conversation,

My mom said, “I tried hard, but I’m human

I made mistakes that I regret deeply”

Showing another perspective to me

Some days were rough, and some were amazing

My temper flared up over many things

Perhaps I was tired or really stressed

My coping skills, probably not the best

The youngest is my adopted daughter

Who portrays me an absolute monster

My perspective is very different

Perhaps I gained momentum as I went?

She just had her first, so now they’re all moms

I wish them well as I pass the baton

They still harbor resentment in degrees

The youngest swears she’ll never be like me

Perhaps my example will break the chain

They’ll parent their children the perfect way

Their children will only recall the good

Their parenting won’t be misunderstood

For the record, I have four boys as well

Who each did their share of making life hell

But none of them have ever shared with me

Their own perspective of disharmony

The unbelievable truth, we’re human

Perception clashes are bound to happen

I bow to my mother who did her best

Who raised four children with single-mom stress

I turn to my daughters, bow to them too

Pray, though they will, your kids never judge you

For the mistakes I made, I apologize

Perhaps, my perspective they’ll realize

                                                       Jody Nelson