I feel like I could have written most of this - that is how much I relate. I am sure many other moms will, too. I've lost my cool many times and then they step up but I don't want to have to do that. Although I think we take what we were given as children and try to be better. I know with me, my mom really did nothing for me, so I overcompensated with my girls - way too much! Great essay!!!