Proud Of You: Full-Circle Admiration For Our Parents

It's a familiar scene in many households: parents beaming with pride at their children's achievements, from the first wobbly steps to graduation caps thrown in the air. But there's a flip side to this dynamic that doesn't get nearly enough spotlight—telling our parents that, as their kids, we're incredibly proud of them too.

As we navigate the winding roads of adulthood, we gain a new perspective on the remarkable lives our parents lead outside their roles as 'Mom' and 'Dad.' My mom, for instance, has this amazing hobby of woodworking, crafting and restoring old furniture, skills she’s honed under the watchful eye of my grandfather; now continuing on in his name since retiring. Her ability to transform a forgotten chair into a piece of art is nothing short of magic.

Then there’s my dad, a man fascinated by anything mechanical. He loves to understand how things work and has the patience and precision to put complex things together. Inspired by his curiosity, I introduced him to the world of Lego projects once he retired as well—not the simple sets we might remember from childhood, but intricate models that challenge the mind and soothe the soul. Watching him sit at the kitchen table, pieces strewn about, focused and fulfilled, was a reminder of the vibrant passions that drive him.

As time marches on and our parents age, the relationship inevitably shifts. The hands that once held ours as we took our first steps might now shake slightly, and the backs that carried us may stoop. But with this shift comes a beautiful opportunity—an opportunity to support them, to celebrate their passions, and to let them know just how proud we are of the lives they’ve led and are still leading.

Perhaps we don't say it enough, maybe because we assume they know, or perhaps because life's incessant hustle keeps us looking ahead rather than in the moment. But it’s important. Telling our parents we’re proud of them acknowledges their individuality, their achievements, and the incredible job they've done not just in raising us, but in living lives that are full, creative, and inspiring.

So next time you see your mom or dad or anyone that you look up to as a parental figure, doing something they love, take a moment. Watch them, really see them, and then tell them, "I'm so proud of you." These simple words, often reserved for us kids, carry immense power when given voice from child to parent. They weave strength into the fabric of their everyday lives, bolstering their spirits and affirming that their passions and efforts have not gone unnoticed.

As their kids, we have a unique view of our parents' lives—the struggles they've overcome, the growth they’ve achieved, and the endless ways they inspire us. As we all grow older together, let’s make sure our parents feel that surge of pride, not just in us, but in themselves. After all, they’ve earned every bit of that recognition, and it’s time we cheered them on as loudly as they've always cheered for us.

So here’s to my parents, my unsung heroes, my biggest fans turned main stars—I’m so, incredibly proud of you.