Adults Quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“Don't feel guilty if you don't immediately love your stepchildren as you do your own, or as much as you think you should. Everyoneneeds time to adjust to the new family, adults included. There is no such thing as an "instant parent." Actually, no concrete object lies outside of the poetic sphere as long as the poet knows how to use the object properly.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Poet and the Object, 1820
Parenting is a process; love for stepchildren develops over time, not instantly.
In simple terms: Step‑parent love grows gradually.
Key Takeaway
Give yourself and children time to adjust.
Themes
family dynamics
blended families
emotional growth
Mood
hopeful
empathetic
Type
advice
supportive
When to use this quote
- adoption
- co‑parenting
- family counseling
Key Concepts
psychology
relationship building
Questions to Reflect On
- What small steps can foster connection?
- How do you manage expectations with your partner?
A Different Perspective
Expecting instant bonds can cause frustration and guilt.
![“He [an earnest young reporter] seemed to share the view of many intelligent, well-educated, well-meaning people that, while adult literature may aim to be art, the object of children's books is to whip the little rascals into shape.” quote by Katherine Paterson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2cf/katherine-paterson-2365_adults_he-an-earnest-young-reporter-seemed-to-s_6101.jpg)
