In a recent trend, Tiktokers have been uploading and sharing videos of their parents experiencing something for the first time and captioning it: “Reminding myself that our parents are living for the first time too.” We often see parents as figures of authority, guidance, and stability — roles they naturally fulfill — but behind those roles are individuals who are constantly learning and adapting, just like us. So what does this new trend tell us about parent-child relationships?
Relationships are complicated, the one with our parents especially so. A parent’s purpose is to guide their children into adulthood. Whether it’s giving advice or just supporting their child from the sidelines, it’s these intentional choices that create an impactful and unconditionally loving relationship between parent and child. But not every parent and child relationship is perfect. As we grow into our own adulthood, we realize the sacrifices and burdens our parents carried to shield us from the cruelties of the world; the viral TikTok trend spotlights the same idea.
We often forget our parents were once children or young adults trying to navigate life. We grow up only ever viewing them as our “parents,”and it leads us to easily dismiss their experiences or most importantly, their identity outside of being just a parent. They too, share fears, hopes and dreams like us. The moment we stop viewing our parent, as only our parent, can be incredibly healing for the relationship between parents and their adult children.
Each generation faces its own unique challenges, which also shape who they are today. This recent TikTok trend acts as a friendly reminder that although some parents may have made mistakes in supporting our development, they are also experiencing the trial and error of life for the first time.
This perspective encourages us to appreciate the sacrifices our parents have made and continue to make for our well-being. Whether it’s through their careers, personal endeavors, or in raising us, they are constantly learning and adapting to ensure our happiness and success
What's Your Reaction?
