Childhood – Midwest Mimi

Survival Is Not the Same as Safety: What We Forget When We Praise Strong Children

When we praise children for being strong, we do not always ask what made them need that strength so young. Reading Demon Copperhead made me think about my daughter Rae, about the burned pot of macaroni and cheese she tried to make for her brother, and about the difference between a child being resilient and…

July 18, 2026
She Learned to Work Before the World Called It Work

Rae learned to work before the world called it work. At twelve, she cleaned my brother’s shop office for real money, real expectations, and a little freedom of her own. I am proud of the confidence work gave her. I also grieve that money had to matter so young.

July 15, 2026

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Survival Is Not the Same as Safety: What We Forget When We Praise Strong Children