Unconventional Parenting: Lessons from My Unique Upbringing

Back in my childhood, my upbringing was definitely not conventional. I had a very special grandmother who loved to eat butter directly from the container. She was extremely protective of real butter and despised the use of margarine. Even now, people still quote her saying, "Margarine barely a molecule higher than the plastic it comes in."

One of the most memorable experiences I had was waterfall diving, a thrilling and sometimes scary activity. My friends and I would run down the small streams of a river, then dive into a waterfall, hitting the rocks at the bottom. We practiced by sitting under a waterfall and timing how long we could stay without falling and how fast we could hit the water. It was fun, but also quite terrifying.

Growing up in India, my parents took a rather open approach to certain subjects. Unlike many Indian parents, they allowed me to watch pornography and masturbate, though they made sure I watched soft porn and limited it to twice a week. They also provided me with comprehensive knowledge on sexual health, including information on conception, contraception, and sexual education. This approach allowed me to grow up with a solid understanding of my body and its functions.

Perhaps the most innovative aspect of their parenting style was their encouragement of open communication. My parents encouraged me to talk back during arguments, a habit that many Indian parents find unacceptable. Whenever I got on my father's nerves, he would sternly but not physically, say, "You will be punished if you stay silent. Answer me, what was the reason you did this?" This instilled in me a sense of confidence to express my feelings and argue intelligently, a skill that served me well in school and later in life.

My father's method of handling arguments was quite unique. He would not raise his voice, but instead listen patiently and encourage me to explain my side of the story. The lesson he imparted was, "Say what you feel politely but firmly." This approach taught me to communicate effectively and assertively, without fear. It ensured that I could respect differing opinions without being offended and that I could listen to others respectfully as well.

As a result, I never had the fear of public speaking, debated confidently, and did not shy away from asking questions. My father's teaching has helped me develop a strong sense of self and the ability to communicate effectively, regardless of age or authority. I am grateful for this unconventional approach to parenting, which has shaped me into the person I am today.

In conclusion, my upbringing was unconventional, but it was these unique experiences and the parenting style of my parents that have molded me into a confident, capable, and respectful individual.

Keywords: unconventional parenting, childhood experiences, open communication