I think my sadness about life causes me to worry too much about my children.

My boy is 19 months and the next boy is coming in February. I think loving my kids is one of the most powerful emotions I've experienced in my life. At 51, I'm an older dad and it's been quite a journey to get to this amazing place. I think we have a pretty happy family and my wife is a great mom and a sunny person. But, I am not. I spent years battling all sorts of problems (depression, anxiety) stemming from my childhood. I am very conscious of NOT transferring and really believe in unconditional, non-punishment parenting. But I feel a lot of sadness and grief sometimes. The first thing is sadness and worry about how our son will adjust to his brother. I know all kids feel some anxiety about new siblings but I really worry about him needing to make room for another and not being the center of love. Beyond this I feel a kind of grief when I think about sending him to school, into a social world that can be so punishing and difficult. He's so happy and confident, even at this age. I am pretty careful to be a calm leader these days and the effect is a very outgoing and funny little guy. I'm wondering how people who have depression and social anxieties feel about their kids' difficulties and struggles as they get into the institutions of life. via /r/Parenting https://ift.tt/32v8JPM