[RNFosterMom]

Two extremely important qualities in a foster parent, I've found, are patience and objectivity. Unfortunately, I seem to lack these qualities, especially the first one! Perhaps if I do not go insane first, I will develop them?

I am always wondering what's going to happen to these poor little kids. When the parents have their ups and downs with their case plans, my mind wanders into the future -- how long will they be with us? Where will they end up? Are family members going to come forward tomorrow? Will these parents get/keep it together and get/keep their kids?

I KNOW it makes no sense to do this, and I have also learned never to listen to what a caseworker tells me because they are usually wrong, but still I find myself doing it. Perhaps I was drawn to foster parenting as a penance for my control freak tendencies?

[jllambert]

I love the last line: Perhaps I was drawn to foster parenting as a penance for my control freak tendencies?

maybe that it why I do it too! I am not becoming less of a control freak either. I think the whole thing is just making me a little crazier!!

Godd Luck to you!!!

[Boulderbabe]

I think one of the hidden gifts of foster care is how much it changes us. I'm more patient, I have more perseverance, and I understand the difference between minor inconvenience and major tragedy better.

I'm still not good at controlling my temper when I think a kid is getting hurt, though. It still makes me super angry when I think that kids' needs are being sacrificed for adults' convenience. My SW calls me "Mama Bear."

[crystalp]

Maybe that's why I haven't gotten a placement yet - I need to learn some patience! I'm not a patient person, and the last 4 months waiting for a placement have been torture!!