This past week I read an article in the New York Times about parenting. It encouraged parents to step away from the intensive program of the “helicopter parent”, and instead just show up, with our whole selves. Giving our child support and care through attention and intentional interaction, instead of through a whirlwind of activities and lessons and educational toys which are meant to give our child an advantage over their peers. (The article goes on to talk about the 4 S method - Safe, Seen, Soothed, Secure, and particular the idea of “seen”, which is pretty new in terms of generations of parenting. I recommend reading the whole thing.)

But this idea of showing up and just being fully present does not apply to parenting alone. It applies to many of life’s interactions with others. Especially those going through a rough time. Emily McDowell’s Empathy Cards has a good one expressing just that (and a very appropriate thank you note as well.) In this day and age, there is such power in just being there completely, without distraction. allowing the person you are with to feel that you get them and that you’ll be there for them. So often we have expectations of others (based on social media, or prior interactions, or our own insecurities) that we don’t let those people tell us who they really are. But if we paid attention, it might not be so hard to see.

Later this spring, a new book on the topic - The Art of Showing Up - will be released. I’m interested to read it, because of my strong thoughts on friendship. This book will also talk about showing up for yourself, and the necessity of true self care, which is definitely a worthy topic.