"All things are connected like the blood that unites us. We do not weave the web of life; we are merely a strand in it. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves."

Chief Seattle

Many of us think that if we do all the right things, we can protect our children's feelings. No matter their age or how much we might want to, we can't protect our children from unhappiness.  

Children experience their thoughts and feelings, and as they grow, we have less input into the circumstances in their lives. Setting limits with warmth and love creates a connected, safe space for our children to be in the world, and by setting limits in our relationships with our children, we model healthy, mutually respectful relationships for and with them. 

The processing of our feelings is an essential part of life, growth, and development. As parents, we can help by feeling our feelings, being present in the moment, listening, holding space, and loving them unconditionally. This type of connection establishes trust for the present and future.

Being connected in this way fosters a sense of belonging and trust and opens our hearts to the knowledge that we are all worthy of a kind of love that doesn't require us to change but rather helps us develop the courage to be who we are.