Having had fun with the marriage metaphors a few days ago, I thought about a similar question about the best descriptive words about the role of parent. What triggered my thinking was a public radio interview with the authors of Too Close for Comfort, a book about mother/daughter relationships. In the interview they discussed problem parent labels: helicopter parents, parents as personal concierge, as guarantor of happiness for their child, etc.
What words do you think describe a better metaphor as parent and why? Guide? Mentor? Coach? In some ways, parents are more connected to their kids than in past generations. And yet, this connection may cause kids to depend more on their parents rather than getting out there and being responsible for their life. Can you think of ways to describe parenting that allows for emotional closeness without the over-dependency.
Here’s one I would like not to have as a title: Parent as homework tutor.
Musings on Faith and Psychology 
Protector.
As a parent, I want my son to know I am always on his side. I will always be there to protect him. Every decision I make, every consequence I dole, is to protect him from foolish choices, to protect him from the edge of the Path, to keep him in the light of His lantern.
Nice meeting you again on Saturday night. I also had a great conversation with your husband.