Around 7 years ago, I went on a date. On this date, we had a fabulous conversation. During this conversation, my date asked me if I had had a happy childhood. And without hesitation, I replied to this question…YES!
The man that asked me that question, almost 7 years ago, went on to become my husband. Birth father of one of my 3 birth children. Step-father to my two other children.
I went on to become this mans wife. Birth mother to one of his three birth children. Step-mother to his two other children.
And now, almost 7 years later…I am reflecting on this question. Not in regards to my life. I know I had a happy childhood. Despite parents that fought passionately. Despite a father who, every other week…packed his suitcase and left…if only for a few hours.
But I had a very happy childhood. Full of wonderful memories of late night family car rides. Board games. Trips to Toronto and Chicago. So much happiness. So much love.
I’m thinking about this because of how quickly times passes.
Very soon, before I can take a deep breath…my children will be old enough to date.
And what if…on this date…the person asks my child if he or she had a happy childhood?
I wonder how my children will respond…all 5 of them. Will they, too, respond that they had a happy childhood? Full of fun family trips? And car rides? And love?
I wonder.
What about you? Did you have a happy childhood? Do you think your children are having a fun childhood? How do you think they will respond to that question when they are older?
I wonder…
