“There is nothing that could make me stop loving you.”
I’ve been saying this to my kids their entire lives, but I remember when the words first sunk in. Eyes wide, they peppered me with questions to test the statement. “But what if I …?”
“Nope, not even that,” I’d reply, even as their questions grew sillier or more dramatic.
My parents told my sister and I the same thing when we were kids, and I honestly believe it was one the best gifts they gave us. We grew up with the confidence that their love was constant, unconditional, unshakeable.
At a time when I feel like I’m making more mistakes than ever as a parent, my kids knowing this love is something I vow to get right. I hope it provides a foundation and some sense of stability during these uncertain days.
And I hope that, no matter what else is going on, this month is filled with that simple yet powerful love for you and your family.
– Katie Vaughn
Katie Vaughn is the editor and co-founder of Northerly. She is a University of Wisconsin-Madison and Stanford University-trained journalist with experience as a writer, reporter, editor, blogger and author. She lives in Madison with her husband, daughter and son, and is always up for an adventure.