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Each passing moment as a mother I am able to reflect upon the places where I used to be unwavering and judgmental about certain issues: home birth, breastfeeding, and co-sleeping. While I still have very deep and passionate beliefs about them I have learned, throughout the past (almost) two years, that being a parent isn't always black and white.

I've learned to be compassionate with other parenting styles and decisions

I've experienced when parenting styles that question or challenge the status quo are often met with harsh criticism and judgements, or they are surprisingly accepted and appreciated. Often times people need some time, patience, and a little dialogue to find common ground.

I've discovered that parenting is a fluid and malleable experience. There are not simply two sides to every issue, and that parents fall somewhere on a vast spectrum of parenting philosophies.

I've also learned that the hegemonic culture (culturally and institutionally) in the United States works on binaries and push divisive tactics that get people to produce more inflamed and dramatic issues that only drive the wedge deeper. This creates deeper divisions and impacts the authenticity of our interactions with others.