I often have to remind myself of the quote, “Comparison is the thief of Joy” by Theodore Roosevelt. It seems like I’ve writen about the perils of comparing oneself to others in past posts, but it’s a lesson I often have to relearn. I guess it’s like anything else. You have to practice not playing the comparison game until it becomes ingrained in you. I’ve had many opportunities to practice, but I catch myself sliding back into the comparison game 90% of the time.
My son is starting his senior year of high school this week. My hair stylist also has a senior and we were conversing about all of the deadlines there are for college admissions, yearbook tributes, senior pictures, etc.,etc. It can all be so overwhelming. She asked if I knew of a blog that addressed living with teenagers. I jokingly told her I knew of a lot of young mommy bloggers, but that parents of teenagers just join wine clubs. If you think it’s hard to reason with a two year old, try a 16 year old. Bribes and Santa Claus don’t work anymore.
I told my friend I’m determined not to get caught up in “senioritis” and worry about what every one else is doing or where their going for Spring Break. Who cares if my son doesn’t want an hour photography session with four outfit changes. It’s not his thing. Plus it saves me money. I would just like one or two nice pictures of him. As moms we often like to share/brag about what our kids are doing. It’s important to stay true to your family’s beliefs and budget and respect your child’s authenticity. Sometimes that can be challenging when it seems like the majority of people are doing something else.
As a new school year begins remember, “Comparison is the thief of Joy.” Be okay with who you are and what you have. If you don’t like something do your best to change it if you can. For those parents with kids still in school, I hope that you and your children have a great start to the new school year.
Linking to Ladies Only Blog Share
OH, Well said, my friend! Well said! I could not agree more!
I have read that Roosevelt quote several times this week. Seems like I need to pay attention to it 🙂 This morning it hit me just how true it is. And comparisons slip into our lives in secret. Thank you for this reminder today. I visited you from the Ladies Only Blog Hop.
Enjoy this senior year. It is the best!
Joanne
Thanks for visiting Joanne. It’s funny how certain things appear in your life just when you need them. Have a great weekend!
Oh I definitely needed to read this today! Comparasion has left me feeling discontent so many times, but I try to really focus on all that I am blessed with. Thanks so much for sharing!
I’m glad it struck a chord with you. Comparison has a way of sneaking into our thoughts without us even realizing it sometimes. I too try to focus on all of my blessings especially when I catch myself playing the comparison game. Thanks for commenting.
That quote is one of my favourites. (When I saw it, I had to click over to your post.) It is something I have relearn all the time, as well. It is so easy to fall back into the comparison trap. I think starting out the school year in an “it’s right for us” frame of mind is a great approach!
Thanks for visiting Kim and for sharing 🙂
I love this post! It’s so true… the parents get caught up in the comparison game about their kids, and then this just stresses the kids out more. Your comment about “just joining wine clubs” has me laughing out loud.
Thanks Seana! I have to keep reminding myself of this quote often 🙂 Sometimes I do think parents are worse than the kids! Good luck with all the back to school festivities.