So today I decided to take my daughter out to run errands with me and have lunch.  She picked me up at work and off we went.  She is my middle daughter….her name is Grace.  Her name is fitting, she is the most thoughtful, caring girl and although she has her teenage moments her heart always prevails.  Ever since she was a little girl she has been concerned with pleasing everyone and avoids hurting feelings at all cost.  The downside to this is that she keeps her feelings held inside.

A few days ago she went to the movie with her sisters and Grandpa and everyone was chirping about her driving, causing huge anxiety and doubt in her skills.  Well today I hopped in the car and from the get go I could tell she was nervous.  After lunch, heading back to work she almost turned left at a traffic light when there were cars going straight.  She didn’t because I said something.  She never would have done this a week ago.  We stopped and the tears were falling.  She felt like, “an idiot”.  I reassured her there was no need to as no one was hurt.  She also needed reminding she is a good driver.  She made it home and just took a bath and very deep breath.

So what I haven’t said is that my daughter has a diagnosis of anxiety which I understand most of the time but struggle at other times to understand.  And today is one of those days.  I will spend the rest of my day reassuring her all is good but I know it will not be enough.  I truly wish I could help her when these moments come.  These are the times when being a parent can be so confusing and trying.  I want to say stop it you are only human like the rest of us and you just have to do your best and not let really inconsequential moments like this take over.  But what I can only do is reassure her and love her and know in a few days this too shall pass.  Such is the way of an Anxiety Disorder.

Oh my little geek (she knows it’s a term of endearment) channel your humor and keep on rolling along.  You are truly a priceless gem and I am so very grateful for you.