Now with social media, we can see what our friends do to celebrate these special occasions. How lavish. Or how simple. How extravagant. Or how ordinary.
Somehow I feel there is a certain show-off factor in those who are prone to grandiose celebrations. Of course, why not show the whole world how much effort, time, and money you have spent to make the event special? Share in the joy with others, right? Post it on FB! And then you have friends who might feel inspired to do a big rah-rah party for their one year old tot too because, hey, my baby shouldn't be deprived of the balloons, clown tricks, party packs and three-tiered Thomas the Train cake right? He might blame me if he were to compare with his friends years down the road.
I don't dig this showing-off nonsense. Commercialisation of precious family events is one thing. Falling for it is another. There certainly is pressure to keep up with the Joneses. I have to keep myself in check too. But if you have your values and priorities straightened out, what others do shouldn't matter. So I tell my kids, as long as we treat each other right, love each other daily, that is more important than having big celebrations with people whom we aren't even close (or know, for that matter!). Keep it simple. What about Mother's Day? Father's Day? Honour your father and mother. Love God. That warms us parents' hearts more than anything else, anytime.
However, I must say a nice chocolate cake on ANY day can help me keep calm and carry on my mothering duties better sometimes. And an affogato. Especially when the kids sap the life out of me with their noise and naughtiness. Peace offering is welcome, kids. Ahahahahahah.
No comments:
Post a Comment