The Unsung Art of Parenting: A Day That Hit Me Hard in Japan

The Underestimated Value of Parenting

During a casual day in Japan, I overheard a conversation between a mom and her friend in the park that struck a chord with me. The mom remarked, somewhat exasperated, that her 5-year-old son had asked her, ‘Isn't your job to take care of me and dad?’ This innocent yet profound statement made me reflect on how children sometimes perceive their parents. In that moment, I understood that he believed his mother was akin to a servant.

Parenting: A Life-Changing Role

Having been a stay-at-home mom myself until my daughter was 1.5 years old, I can attest that parenting is one of the toughest jobs one can ever undertake. Irrespective of the financial freedom that some may possess, the reality is that parenting yields no monetary reward. This lack of compensation might lead one to feel like a slave to the household duties. However, I propose a different perspective: rather than viewing ourselves as servants, we are in fact modern nobility, akin to skilled artists supported by a noble class.

You could name composers like Haydn, who was a beloved music director for the wealthy Esterházy family at their palace in Eszterháza, rural Hungary. Or Mendelssohn, the son of a successful banker, whose father would gather a string quartet or quintet whenever Mendelssohn composed a piece to hold rehearsals.

The Surprising Talent of Stay-at-Home Parents

Reflecting on my time with other stay-at-home moms, I was often amazed by their extensive knowledge of enjoyable activities and venues. These moms were like cultural curators for our group, always on the lookout for fun things to do. From discovering delightful restaurants to organizing dance and karaoke sessions, they brought joy and entertainment into our lives and those of our children. They showed us that parenting, indeed, is an elite job – one that requires creativity, resourcefulness, and immense emotional labor.

Parents are not only responsible for the well-being of their children; they are also architects of joyful experiences that shape childhood memories. This multifaceted role goes beyond merely ensuring physical needs are met; it stretches into fostering emotional, social, and cultural growth. Each story shared, every outing planned, and the countless hours devoted to nurturing a happy environment represent the true artistry of being a parent.

We shouldn’t underestimate the importance of parenthood. It is a job filled with challenges yet equally enriched with opportunities to nurture the next generation. While it may seem like a thankless endeavor, the satisfaction gained from witnessing our children grow into kind and capable individuals is priceless. Please remember, parenting is not just a responsibility; it is a supreme vocation that transcends traditional job roles.

All in all, while children may simplify our role to that of caretakers, the reality is much more nuanced. So, the next time we hear a child voice simplistic expectations about their parents, let’s remember the depth of our responsibility. We are artists sculpting the future, and each day offers a new canvas for us to explore, shape, and enrich.