In a constant search to better understand parenting and the coming of a new baby, millions of people flock to the book stores in an effort to find that tome that will impart upon them the wisdom of the ages. Steph and I have done it like millions before us.
What is less realized by those about to have a baby is the overwhelming volumes of advice heaped upon the expecting by friends and family. I'm mockingly pointing a finger at every person who currently has a child. =)
One thing I've come to realize is that everyone becomes a prophet... hence the biblical reference in the title. Everyone speaks their "truths" about babydom and those truths constantly contradict each other from one person to the next.
For one person, their baby slept throughout the night because of the formula they used... another person says the diaper genie is pointless, while another swears by it... while still others discuss the best way to breastfeed (awkward to say the least).
A famous author by the name of Joseph Campbell wrote an equally famous book called "The Hero with a Thousand Faces". I've adapted the title to the multitudes who have spoken their truths to Steph and I. Essentially Campbell discusses how the hero myth, regardless of story, uses the same cycle or formula. You can see this cycle repeated from the ancient Greek myths of Perseus to the more modern Harry Potter novels. Hence, there is one hero and he has thousands of different faces.
I am here today to say that the same is true for parents.
What I have learned from all of this advice is simple... each person has a particular way of raising their child. What worked for them might not work for others. Try everything more than once. Don't save the cord blood. Each child is different. Eat when you can. Sleep when they sleep. Don't screw them up too much. And so on...
For all of those giving advice, please don't stop! In spite of this post's mocking tone, we love to hear what everyone has to say. Even those who "speak... therefore it is so!" Steve, I'm looking at you brother!
What it ultimately means is that you care enough to say anything in the first place. Harrison's not even here yet and because of every one's advice, Steph and I can't wait to meet him and screw him up in our own way. Keep the advice coming!
Here's a piece of advice: Trial and error, do what works for you, and don't let anyone make you feel guilty for it.
ReplyDeleteKids survive all around the world being raised in vastly different ways.
All you need is love.
P.S. Have you heard of that documentary that follows four children from different places in the world for their first year of life? I think it's in the theater or coming to the theater. I think it's called Babies. ?