Mama Says: Find Strength in the New
- Michele Renee
- Aug 22, 2025
- 4 min read
To my Offspring, Mommy says~ written on August 29, 2017
It seems from a very young age we begin to discover how difficult, uncomfortable, but yet so exciting it is to venture out into “the new”…
New beginnings 🌱
New relationships, projects, opportunities, school, home, friends~
Changes???
The moment I begin to realize my backbone has been strengthened by all those things in my world that are familiar is usually the same moment I realize nothing in this world is rigidly set to make it your only truth.
The minute you find comfort in the familiar should be your indicator that it is also time for one of life’s greatest enjoyments to find buoyancy in the rarity. You can decide to spring back if you prefer, or forever engage in the new truth as you bounce forward.
“The comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing ever grows there.”
My Children, who they are today 💕
My children have had a lot of changes and experiences, and I am so proud of the little humans they are today.
🌸 Marisa
My oldest daughter Marisa is 20 years old. She reminds me of my fun self the young-at-heart soul but with old-soul maturity.
Young adulthood is the season when we begin to form a new type of mature love: passion-fueled and deeply transformative. Developmental psychology shows that between ages 18–25, young adults are in Erik Erikson’s stage of “Intimacy vs. Isolation” searching for meaningful connections while also forging independence.
Marisa is completely outgoing but reserved, resilient after numerous rebounds from loss. She stays “adhesioned” to her beliefs, with a strong determination to independently “structure” herself for all the expectations she has carried since she was a little girl.
She has a strong drive toward connecting with other souls, but not everyone can meet her at that deep mental level. Research shows that only about 20% of friendships last beyond young adulthood and the most enduring ones are built on shared values and vulnerability (Psychology Today, 2017).
I treasure the priceless support, understanding, and advice she gives me. Our relationship has been under constant reconstruction, influenced by growth, understanding, and outside forces. At times it feels like magic, other times a perfect stream, and sometimes a storm. But always there is love.
“A daughter is one of the most beautiful gifts this world has to give.” – Laurel Atherton
🎮 Jay
My son Jay, now in 7th grade, is one of the most thoughtful and coolest kids I know. He allows himself to lose his cool when he isn’t performing at his best his own worst critic. Studies show that adolescents with perfectionist tendencies are more prone to anxiety and stress (Journal of Youth & Adolescence, 2016), and Jay reminds me to encourage balance.
From the time he was a toddler, he was obsessed with dinosaurs. He could name each species, habits, and survival skills before most kids could spell “dinosaur.” His intense focus mirrors a trait we share: a drive to master what we love.
Today, his passion is gaming. It has taught him creativity, problem-solving, and leadership skills that psychologists agree are transferable to real life. Gamers often outperform non-gamers in strategic planning and cognitive flexibility (American Psychological Association, 2014).
Though confident at times, he often questions himself normal for this stage, as self-identity develops. I see brilliance in him, and I know his hunger for knowledge will take him far.
“It is not what you do for your children, but what you have taught them to do for themselves that will make them successful human beings.” – Ann Landers
☀️ Miley
Miley, my baby at 10 years old, is pure love. She radiates warmth and genuine care from her soul, often showing emotional intelligence well beyond her years.
Studies show that children with high empathy are more likely to thrive socially and emotionally, and empathy is one of the strongest predictors of future success in relationships and leadership (Harvard Business Review, 2018). That’s Miley always giving back in exactly the way someone needs.
She loves quality time over quantity, glowing brightest when seen and cherished. Her sense of humor, wit, and originality are unmatched. Even when faced with challenges like starting at a new school, she shows courage and resilience.
Miley your shine is one-of-a-kind. Stay determined, stay silly, and never dim your light to fit into someone else’s shadow.
“To the world, you may be one person; but to one person you may be the world.” – Dr. Seuss
Lessons for Today ✨
The GRIND is a lie!
Don’t believe you were made just to survive. God created you for greatness, for your own unique path. Research shows that intrinsic motivation (driven by personal meaning) is far more powerful than external rewards like money or approval (Deci & Ryan, Self-Determination Theory).
Surround yourself with cheerleaders, not critics.
When something isn’t working, pray, reflect, and adjust, don’t settle.
See challenges as the “level-ups” in your life’s game.
Life is not about rushing to the finish line but about the journey itself.
Money & Gratitude 💸
Yes, money matters, but it isn’t everything. Studies on happiness consistently show that beyond meeting basic needs, experiences and relationships bring more lasting joy than possessions (Cornell University, 2010). Understanding the difference between “needs” and “wants” makes blessings sweeter.
Emotions & Empathy 💗
Understand your emotions, don’t bury them. Suppressed feelings often resurface as anger, but acknowledging sadness, joy, or frustration helps us connect with others.
Empathy is the bridge. Sympathy notices someone’s pain; empathy makes you want to help. Research confirms empathy leads to higher life satisfaction and stronger communities (Greater Good Science Center, UC Berkeley).
“Do not be daunted by the world’s grief. Do justly, now. Love mercy, now. Walk humbly, now.” – Rabbi Rami Shapiro
Who Am I? 🌌
Exploring identity is a lifelong journey. Don’t be afraid to change your mind, try new things, or reinvent yourself. Trust your instincts they are God’s whispers to your soul.
Mistakes? They’re proof you are trying. Learn, forgive yourself, and keep walking toward your light.
“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” – Carl Jung
Final Note 🕊️
My children, remember always: you are unique, loved, and capable of extraordinary things. Make a difference in this world not by being perfect, but by being true.
“If you make a mistake, learn from it. Forgive yourself. And above all, be true to YOU.” ❤️
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