I wondered how long it took for a baby to become yours, for familiarity to set in. Maybe as long as it took a new car to lose that scent, or a brand-new house to gather dust. Maybe that was the process more commonly described as bonding: the act of learning your child as well as you know yourself.
The author reflects on the process of bonding with a new baby, considering how long it takes for the initial unfamiliarity to fade and how the connection deepens over time. This transformation is compared to a new car losing its fresh scent or a house slowly accumulating dust, illustrating the inevitable familiarity that develops in relationships. The imagery emphasizes the gradual journey of coming to know another person intimately.
Bonding with a child involves not just time but also emotional investment and understanding, akin to knowing oneself. This deep connection forms as parents learn about their child’s personality and needs, fostering a profound relationship that becomes an integral part of their identity.
