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Thought for the Day: Since Independence Day is later in 2 weeks, I decided to write about independence. I searched for stories & parables to help me with this task to no avail, I decided to write a short modern parable from a psychologist's point of view on independence. I hope you will help choose the conclusion. So here's my first attempt at a parable:
The Johnstons had difficulty conceiving. Mary & Robert Johnston, like many couples these days. put their faith in modern medicine & artificial insemination despite the stress it put on their intimate life. After years of trying, they were thrilled & a bit anxious when they learned they were going to have triplets. Two healthy boys, John & Joe, & a girl, Jenny, arrived nine months later. Mary & Robert stepped up to the challenge of having an instant family of five. Once the triplets were in kindergarten, both parents found it necessary to work to support them.
However, the stress of parenting triplets sent them into therapy. Robert kept hearing about adult children returning home & staying dependent on their parents. He was worried about having to support his triplets forever. Mary felt obligated to give her children whatever they wanted. Given their differences of opinion, they wanted the therapist to help them plan for the triplets independence. With the therapist's help they devised a plan. They taught their children that they would have to fend for themselves when they reached adulthood. They reminded them frequently that when the time came, they would give them an independence challenge. They would be given a week to prove to their parents that they were capable of fending on their own. Read on to see how the challenge turned out...
