Parents’ behaviors affect children

We grow up thinking our parents hold all the answers. As children we imitate them and want to be just like them. But what if you grow up and realize that they’ve been doing it all wrong?

Now I realize that my mom has made some lifestyle choices that are killing her, and I can do nothing but stand and watch.

My mother smokes. And with every drag, I watch her inhale poisonous toxins and exhale what should be fresh breath. In the evenings I listen to her breathing become more of a chore as the drags go on.

It kills me to watch her literally kill herself.

On top of her smoking, she has other unhealthy habits that are killing her. And it’s not just my mother — plenty of American parents have these habits too. The lack of exercise and the poor diet choices that lead to extra pounds here and there; it eventually builds up.

I know I am not the only child in America that is watching the parents kill themselves. While my situation is not as extreme as others, it’s unnervingly common. Sometimes I wonder if my mom will be around for my children’s graduations or their weddings, or if she’ll be around to celebrate her 70th or 80th birthday.

My mom is an amazing woman who is wonderful, kind and has taught me so many valuable lessons in life making me who I am today. For her to overcome so much in her life, to end it all with a drag of a cigarette — it just seems like a waste. If parents could realize that they are being selfish and not only taking away from their life but their children’s too. I hope there is other parents out there can learn that what you’re doing is hurting your children too.

Nicole Lumbreras

Mundelein