What does being a parent really mean?

Being a parent means:

Loving your child, no matter what.

Putting your family first.

Feeding your child.

Clothing your child.

Putting a roof over your child's head.

Providing an education for your child.

Wiping your child's tears when he or she is sad.

Smiling when your child is happy.

Teaching your child right from wrong.

Making sure your child is healthy.

Making yourself available as a person your child can turn to in times of need.

Earning your child's trust.

Earning your child's respect.

Respecting your child.

Showing your child what a REAL mother is.

Showing your child what a REAL father is.

Being a good role model for your child.

But above all... being a parent really means that you are there for your child. Because in the future, your child will remember all the times that you were there and all the times you werent. Be a good parent and be there.

ANSWER

For me, my children, while part of me, do not belong to me, my job (as a mum) is to provide them with love and security while ultimatily bringing them up and showing them how to be responsible adults who can look after themselves when they eventually leave home.

The sad fact is, most children these days (not just the boys), leave home, unable to cook, clean or budget, leaving them in debt.