In conversation with a fellow parent recently, I found myself reflecting on the fallacy of waiting for the "next stage" of life. It's a trap we often fall into, thinking that once certain challenges pass, we'll have more time and fewer complications. However, reality has taught me that life constantly evolves, bringing new complexities. The key, I've discovered, is to embrace each stage for what it is, rather than longing for the illusion of a future where everything magically aligns.