For Your Journal: Writing Prompt

Do you keep a journal – or wish you could get one started? Read this prompt from Literary Mama reader Liwen Ho. Then, open a notebook and write for 10 minutes. Don’t worry about grammar or punctuation – just write. 

Friendship

I stood outside the playground, trying to spot my daughter among the dozens of preschoolers running around, riding trikes and swinging. It took me a few extra seconds to identify her head from the two heads huddled beside hers. I smiled at the similarity of their hairstyles and how despite their young age, they already know the formula to making friends.

It’s no secret that birds of a feather flock together. The best of friendships are built on shared interests, whether it be a love of running, jazz or, in my daughter’s case, a chin-length bob. My own circle of friends is aptly made up of many firstborns like me; like my daughter, I am also drawn to the familiar.

Since becoming a mom, however, I have discovered a common denominator that pushes me outside my comfort zone when it comes to making friends: our children. Regardless of age, culture or socioeconomic background, there is no better icebreaker for parents than the commonality of their war stories. I experience camaraderie whenever I hear another parent share about their child’s potty training success. I feel a sense of kinship when another mom nods in understanding as I lament about my son’s eating habits. These exchanges have helped open the door to finding an unexpected friend where I may not have looked before I had kids.

I am thankful for my friendships that have developed and deepened over shared parenting challenges and triumphs.

Journal Entry: Think about a friendship you found after you had your child(ren). How did the common bond of parenthood help spark and strengthen this friendship? Write about the ways this friend has expanded your inner circle and enriched your life.

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Do YOU have a writing prompt to share with Literary Mama readers? Send your 150- to 300-word narrative and associated writing prompt to lmblogcontact (at) literarymama (dot) com. We’d love to read your ideas!