“It takes a village to raise a child.” I always thought that saying was about how challenging it is to raise kids, and about how important it is for the entire community to pitch in to help them turn out okay. While that may be true, in part, I

I am thankful, though, that God--in His infinite wisdom--didn't put us here to do it all alone. My kids would be doomed if I didn't have the love, support and wisdom that other moms (and quite a few non-moms and a supportive husband) provide!

• Just think of all the women who have mothered ahead of us, raising kids a step or two further along the road...They provide so much insight and wisdom for the here and now. It's their legacy to the next generation--us.
• And what about the mothers in the trenches with us now? What a blessing to have someone to relate to--a friend to call and ask, "What do you do when..."
• And of course, our responsibility to the mothers coming up behind--including our daughters who watch us like a hawk: To pass the torch, to share the wisdom, to make this world a better place. That's our legacy to the future.

It's humbling, actually, to realize how little we can do on our own. We are who we are because of those who go ahead of us and choose to share. We get through it because of those who walk beside us. And we can make a difference, if we choose to, by sharing with those who come along behind us. My daughter is only three. Yet she knows already how to rock a baby, sing a lullaby and kiss a boo-boo. There's still so much to share and teach. I'm glad I don't have to go it alone, AND that I'm not the only one she'll have to rely on!

"It takes a village to make a mom." It's not the famous quote, but it's really what it all comes down to. Working together, we can raise these kids, to be world changers, big thinkers, and amazingly wonderful parents themselves!

About the Author:

Karen Dawkins and her family reside in North Carolina, USA, blessed by a supportive "village" of moms and non-moms. She contributes stories of their life and adventures at www.joyfuljungle.com. She is available as a speaker for women's events as well, and you can contact her through the website.