My 9 year old son just had his braces and palate extender removed yesterday. I can’t believe that he’s had them on for 18 months already. My children have become my greatest teachers in life. This event in his life is something that he will never forget and neither will I. He taught me many things during this journey, but the most important thing he taught me is patience. I sometimes sit back and wonder if other parents think about the same things I do or if they just push through these events without any thought. My husband says I think too much, but this is how I see life as a big lesson. Here are a few things I learned from braces.
Braces taught me that:
10. a nine year old has the ability to restrain himself from candy and marshmallows for 18 months. ( Yes, he did. Think about this fact the next time you try a new diet or need to drop a food group due to your health. I’m inspired. If he can do it so can I.)
9. sometimes you just need to stay away from temptation. ( We missed a 4H meeting because he knew that marshmallows were going to be there and he couldn’t bare it. He knew his limits.)
8. you don’t need to brave all the time. ( Just admit defeat. Let people know it’s hard.)
7. candy bought at a candy shop costs more money for a reason. ( It is far superior to store bought bagged candy. This was his yummy treat after getting his braces off.)
6. when you haven’t had something for a long time, it tastes so much better. ( So, so, so good!)
5. my son can be strong, patient and brave. ( Sure, he runs away from a fly screaming, but can endure tons of metal in mouth-go figure!)
4. a beautiful smile can light up a room. ( Yes, we all say it, but wow! I still can’t get over how his face just shines.)
3. a mother’s hug can ease the pain. ( I spent many nights just holding him. It was better than any medicine we had in the cabinet.)
2. not everyone will recognize your sacrifices or your triumphs. ( When he returned to school he hoped that he would get lots of attention with his new smile, but he was a little disappointed when only 4 people acknowledged him. 18 months is a long time for a kid to go without treats, he just wanted a pat on the back.)
1. knowing your destination can help you on your journey. ( You do your best. You stay on course. You fall. You get up. Then somehow you get there and it’s all been worth it. Too bad the rest of life doesn’t work like this.)
Well, this mom is very proud of her son. We spent the day together buying candy and having lunch at his favorite restaurant. He even lost a baby tooth on the way home. There isn’t anything I would rather do than spend this special day with him. Now I get to sit back and enjoy this beautiful new smile.
Ruth says
So wonderful!!! Yippppeee! Pat Pat Pat on Noah’s back!
beyourbestmom says
LOL! He’s thrilled!
Mrs. F says
The thought of seeing your boys and helping with / sharing in on these important days makes me want to go back! I am thankful that you stop and reflect on these events in your daily life.. you know and appreciate your boys so much for it.
beyourbestmom says
Aw Thanks. I try to enjoy every minute of it.
Ethel says
Congrats Noah!!!!! Hope you enjoy all your treats.
beyourbestmom says
He’s loving life and his Twizzlers!