health
The Phrase I Texted My Kids 133 Times
And all the things it didn’t say
TL;DR
- The author texted his children "Too loud" 133 times between 2020 and the end of last year.
- These texts, often sent late at night, were a subtle way of acknowledging his children's presence and happiness in the home.
- The author reflects on these messages as a record of his home being full of life, filled with laughter, debates, and friends.
- He realized that the noise was evidence of his children choosing to be there, a sign of emotionally present parenting.
- As his children prepare to become adults and his own roles are changing, the quiet house signifies a new phase of letting go.
- The author understands that the true meaning of these texts was only clear in hindsight, as parents often don't realize they are in the 'good years' until they are over.