Raising Grace

Sheila Chester is a mother of three children, two of whom came through adoption and one through fertility treatments. Her 11-year struggle to fulfill her dream of becoming a mother is what drives her to learn more about other parents. What makes us so unique? As parents, it sometimes feels like we are raising kids alone. However, the truth is that many families experience similar struggles and joys. Let's share our chaotic and wonderful lives as parents. We raise our children differently, but we all have one thing in common: we love them fiercely. Take a listen, and you may find a parent who shares your struggles or successes. As parents, we can be tough on ourselves. Let's come together to recognize that raising kids deserves a large amount of grace—for both ourselves and our children. Being a parent is hard. How can we raise our children with grace in the toughest of times? How can we, as parents of young children, unite and encourage each other to see our children with grace and understanding? I am an amateur parent, just like the rest of us. Let's support one another with love and grace.