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I feel stupid

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“I don’t feel cared for.”
“I feel stupid.”

Those are two things I never wanted to hear my kids say but you said both to me this weekend. I had just started the shower and went out into the hallway to search for a clean towel and there you were, in the dark, slumped against the side of the hallway with your head in between your knees. You weren’t crying yet but it was clear things were not OK.
I assumed it was another fight with your sister, and maybe it was at first, but when I asked what was wrong that was the response I got.
I went back into my bathroom and turned off the water. This would take an extra long hug.
I pulled you into my arms and told you I feel stupid all the time. We’re all learning every day and it’s OK.

It’s more true for me than I would like to admit. My job right now is hard and there seems to be at least one day each week when I feel like I can’t do anything right.
I hate that feeling. I hate even more that my sweet girl is feeling it.

So how do we move forward? How do I ensure you feel cared for and smart and valuable in this family? Baby girl let me tell you what I hope to do better:

Value your opinions. No one thinks quite like you. It’s why I love you so much. You have a head full of crazy ideas to have fun and most of the time I ignore them. I need to stop that.
Find your passion. We have not done enough to develop your talents. I need to help you identify a hobby, or 5, that help you feel inspired.
Give you opportunities to serve. You have so much to give. I feel like already you’ve stopped seeing that. You are the best friend someone needs.

Baby girl, I want you to know you are not alone in your feelings. It’s common to feel stupid. It’s not fun, but it happens. Now it’s up to me to show you what to do when you feel that way. You are amazing and unique and a light. Please, PLEASE don’t give up on who you are. I love you, Eisley!

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