I don’t panic anymore because I know that when children are testing limits they aren’t out to get me.  They aren’t searching for my weaknesses, they’re searching for their boundaries.  I can be calm because I don’t feel I have to fix every emotional outburst or stop every cry. I can accept their emotions and support them in whatever way I can.  I am at peace because I know I will make mistakes and that my children will be okay — not only that but it gives me a chance to model for them how to apologize or make amends.  I have time to take care of things in my life, because my children can play on their own and be quite happy.