The tricky journey of parenthood
To raise a child in this world of mayhem is similar to embarking on an incredible but arduous journey, just like Frodo's quest in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
In my case, this journey is only a couple of steps old, but already I feel like Frodo when he left the Shire, uncertain, somewhat fearful and filled with trepidation.
One cannot but help embarking on this adventure with a sense of foreboding, yet excitement.
It is, after all, a task of epic proportions to make sure that the little one grows up safe, secure and joyous.
It is about being responsible for life, and helping such a life to navigate the myriad roads of danger, trials, joy and achievements.
And we know South Africa’s roads are littered not just with physical potholes, but the figurative sinkholes, such as a dodgy education system, a failing economy, and the sad collapse into lawlessness, that we face on our travels.
Isn’t is amazing how, with the arrival of the newborn, the landscape at home swiftly undergoes a metamorphosis?
It is transformed into a panorama of baby lotions, where nappies are stacked like gold bars and climate control is no longer a Green Peace concern.
On this journey of parenthood you hit survival mode from the word go, where every yelp from the baby sounds like a doomsday bell, and, all the while, you fret over bowel movements, infuriating cramps and constant hunger pangs.
You know that your mind has switched from serenity to Defcon 5 when, without realising it, you also start patting the dog to negate built up gas.
Indeed, it is an exciting time, even though it calls for strenuous pyjama marching to make any drill sergeant jealous, and for determination of steel and skilled diplomacy to ensure sleep for all.
Also, on this journey, you discover the mysteries of bodily fluids and you become skilled at deciphering different cries, but despite it all, is there anything more rewarding?
To be a parent seems calls for plenty of common sense, guts, patience, calmness, but also a lot of selfless action.
It is a task not to be taken lightly or frivolously.
This is why Pregnancy Awareness Week (February 7 to 14) is actually important.
During this time, pregnancy education is reinforced and expectant mothers are equipped with the knowledge that will help them to ensure they make the right health decisions for themselves and their babies.
The decision to embark on parenthood does, after all, deserve to be treated with utmost seriousness, because it is not child’s play.
Life is precious, and to be granted responsibility for such treasure is the greatest adventure that exists.
To all parents, past and present: may the road navigated be marked by fair winds, helping hands and the unshakable belief that sanity is not lost forever.
