Fake it

Yesterday my son, his wife and two little children were in a car accident.  Although everyone was fine, my son was justifiably shaken.  When I talked to him this morning, he said he kept reliving the accident and was having problems letting it go.  He didn't want to worry anyone so he asked for advice.  My answer?  "Fake it."

Isn't that what we have to do sometimes?  We don't always have the luxury of showing our true emotions when our children are watching.  What they need from us in stressful situations is the reassurance that their parents are in control and will take care of them.   It isn't easy when all you want to do is freak out but the last thing you need is kids who really DO start freaking out because that's what their parents are doing.  So, fake it.  Put on that calm demeanor and reassure them that everything will be ok.  You might even convince yourself.