Once you’re a parent, everything changes…

Responsibility.org is talking with people around the country about how Responsibility #StartsWithMe. This idea that responsibility starts with the individual is an important one. It shows that you have the power to positively influence those around you. Responsibility.org spoke with Danielle, a mom who knows she has the power to raise her son to make smart, healthy decisions – like to not drink underage. She’s using her past experiences and what she knows about her family history, to have open, honest and frequent conversations about alcohol in her family. Here’s her story. 

When you become a parent, everything changes. Your world revolves around this little person, a feeling indescribable by many, but we’re going to try anyway.

We caught up with Danielle, a mom who tries her best every day to instill the right values in her son because she believes conversations that will last a lifetime, should start with her. Kindness, compassion, empathy, generosity – all characteristics that are taught in time; between carpools and lunches and activities. Between each daily task, is a tiny conversation. A nugget of information that helps parents form an idea of what kind of person their little ones are becoming. These conversations are critical.

“I feel like if we keep that conversation flowing, he’s going to be more apt to come to me and I think that’s really important.”

Danielle’s story is a powerful one. Growing up surrounded by family members with drug and alcohol problems, she knew that when she raised her son – things were going to be different. She takes these experiences and creates a lasting dialogue with her son. One that creates deep roots for her to be the trusted adult throughout his life.

Despite busy schedules, be sure to make time for these important conversations. Here’s why those talks matter. Here’s why this mom’s story is so special to us. Thanks for sharing how Responsibility #StartsWithMe, Danielle.