Change...

So it came that Mia goes to crèche for the first time this morning, she was home with me for nearly two months. This time was spend thinking of things to do to occupy our time together, enjoying her and playing all sorts of games. Now it is time to return to work and focus on the job at hand. Like many other mothers today in the Western Cape, I am sure, I feel a bit sad yet proud.

Mia's stay at home has taught me so much not only about her but also about myself. I marvel at the things she does and says. The way she sees her world, the way she makes sense out of what she sees. I  marvel at the things learns and the enjoyment of life. Today I think many mothers are sitting and thinking about what they have achieved and what their children have accomplished. Regardless if whether your child were feeling a bit overwhelmed by the experience of going to a new place or whether they could not wait. You I am sure are proud of the spirit and the guts your child has shown.

Although none of us are sure what the future hold, I can only say that you as parents can pat yourself on the back for the effort and time you have invested in your child thus far. As with anything your reward will be quantified by your commitment to this. I can't help to think of my maid who has a little boy who starts school this year, and the wonder and excitement in her voice as she tells me about how excited she and he is about this new venture.

What makes this ever more tremendous is the small amount of money that she saved each month to make this a reality. She as many other mothers also struggle with daycare and also moved her child last year from one preschool to another to ensure better education. She works 6 days a week sometimes seven to earn enough to support a family of four children and one grandchild. Three of her children are school going. She like many others are inspiration to any parent who has ever thought about the cost of education.

I know two children who starts the journey of high school this year, both were excited yet a bit worried about what to expect. Then there are the once who are preparing to finish primary school and high school this year. The one thing that is a constant in your life as parents are the the fact that things change. Your child is always finishing off something to move onto something else.

My hopes and wishes are that you as parents; regardless of where you are in this journey of change; are blessed with the strength and the foresight to guide and protect your children in this ever changing world; while providing your child enough room to live and learn.