A few years before our daughter was born I had gone through a life-changing experience that led me on a personal journey of self-discovery and a deeper insight into life.

By the time we were expecting her, I was a tougher, more experienced and more determined person.

I was certainly more intentional about my life and decisions. However, one thing I didn't realize at the time was that, although my choices were selfless and bold, they were driven by fear and pain.

Lack of trust and loneliness within had risen that even I didn't know existed, and these were the source of my choices. I had been disappointed and hurt badly, and my mental health had received a blow that even I didn't realize.

I was ready to discomfort myself and go through pain for the choices I made.

And yes I did discomfort myself for years and suffered rejection from those who should see through my brokenness, but didn't.

But, do you blame them, when even I couldn't see I was broken?

Then time, solitude, God and my beautiful daughter happened to me, I found clarity, and answers, saw my mistakes and accepted them, and the journey to self and healing began...

Perhaps counselling and therapy would have made that healing faster, but even at that point, I didn't know where to access this.

Luckily I had the gift of people who helped that healing process and yet had no idea how much healing they brought to me.

Oh my daughter, if only the little one knew how much of a 'saviour' she was, little did I know those sad days will define the rest of our bond as mother and daughter.

♥How I prayed into her life the minute she was in my arms, just because it was just the 2 of us.

♥ how I laughed and cried at the same time as I stared into her eyes forcing myself to say the deepest things most sweetly ( no wonder her words are deep at 6)

♥ how she had my full attention in those weeks because she was the only one who could see through me. Today I can influence her even when she is having the biggest meltdown. This one doesn't 'fear' me one bit, she understands honour.

Today I'm looking/putting the finishing touch to our launch plan for her as we begin the process of preparing her for her teen-age and I'm smiling. What a robust plan!

Thanks to Coach Wendy for the extra inspiration and structure I needed to complete this.

Yes, my little "Miss Mami" turns 7 in 4days and the journey begins!

The skills

The education

The knowledge

The habits

The autonomy

The connection

The accountability

The beliefs & mindset...all in the PLAN.

Lord, we are ready for this.

Dear traumatized parent, oh sorry, beautiful parent, your ability to look inward and heal may be what you need to get your "A Game" on!

Remember, you have their little hand in yours. You are a model...

A Mentor Parent♥

Selah.

Have a great week ahead.

Marybeth Chima

The MentorMum.