Children are Like Kites

With the new year and a new(ish) office (I technically moved into to my new space in October) I decided it was time for a new website and a new logo. I considered using my initials for a totally different look, especially since I felt like the kite logo was perhaps a bit too childish and not entirely reflective of my practice as I work with adolescents and adults as well. Ultimately, I decided to stick with the kite because I do really like the inspiration and symbolism behind it. I came across this poem by Erma Bombeck years ago and it really stuck with me.

Children Are Like Kites
You spend years trying to get them off the ground.
You run with them until you are both breathless. They crash ... they hit the roof ... you patch, comfort and assure them that someday they will fly.
Finally, they are airborne.
They need more string, and you keep letting it out.
They tug, and with each twist of the twine, there is sadness that goes with joy.
The kite becomes more distant, and you know it won't be long before that beautiful creature will snap the lifeline that binds you together and will soar as meant to soar ... free and alone.
Only then do you know that you have done your job.

As a therapist, I try to help parents with this ever important and difficult job of flying a kite. Sometimes children need a little extra help with patching and comforting beyond what mom and dad can do. Sometimes mom and dad need a little extra help learning to let out more string. Sometimes, we need to figure out how to have fun again as a family. Together, my hope is that we are able to help children soar.