The Only Legacy with a 100% Return : The Second Life of a Parent

If You Have Parental Regret

As parents, it's common to experience feelings of regret, especially when reflecting on past ambitions and aspirations. Many of us have devoted our lives to our children, yet, at times, we find ourselves yearning for opportunities missed in our careers. The emotional complexity behind parenting often brings about a unique dichotomy: the love for our children versus the ambition for personal achievement.

Mirages in Career

Despite lingering regrets, one truth remains clear—parenting has its own uniquely rewarding journey. While I absolutely adored my daughter, I was often torn by the fleeting career opportunities that passed me by.

I lost several recording deals from major labels in Japan. Yet in moments of reflection, I came to realize that a career offers no guarantees. There’s no way to know whether those missed albums would have sold well or meaningfully elevated my profile. You might earn an impressive title or accumulate wealth, but success is rarely predictable.

The 100% Guarantee of Parenthood

On the other hand, parenting comes with its own assurances. By dedicating ourselves to our children, we are sculpting the next generation and nurturing lives that are part of us. While others may chase a semblance of fulfillment without children, as parents, we have the privilege of watching our offspring grow and thrive. It’s a rare blessing that should remind us to embrace the journey of parenting.

Meaningful Aging Without Resentment

One day, when my daughter was around 20, I said, “Look how old I’ve gotten.” She quickly replied, “Age is a kind of radiance.” At the time, I hadn’t yet stepped into my second life after parenting.

But over time, as I watched her career blossom, I realized something: I don’t have to fear aging—because she carries a part of me forward.

Of course, people without children can find happiness too, depending on their path and what they grow from. But for parents, the emotional investment feels different—woven into the lives we’ve helped shape.

So as we grow older, let’s hold onto these quiet, meaningful moments. The little legacies. The love we poured in. Even if parenting didn’t always align with our dreams, it gave us something just as rich—something no title or paycheck could ever match.