I have spent time reflecting on being a mother. My expectations before I became a mom versus how I am deciding how to parent now.
I never knew how tough, constant, draining being a mother was. When I was single and when I got married, life was all about me. I was selfish and my decisions for the most part only affected me and/or my hubby. Would I have been a parent if I could grasp the pain, tears, sleepless nights, the tempers life with children would bring? Probably not. I have to chuckled at that answer though. I sure have grown up these past 8 years! Thankfully, with God's grace and strength, He has molded me to become more loving, more accepting, less critical and He has taught me how to forgive.
When I experience doubt in my parenting, I know that God places people in my life to support and encourage me. Two strangers this week, came up to me and complimented me on my parenting style...which is quite humbling as I didn't have great examples to desire to follow. In fact lately, I have had much fear in regards to being a mother. How much was I going to wreck in my kids life? Should I start saving for their counselling funds?
But then by God's design, I was recently invited to a banquet and sat beside a older woman who was just in the midst of empty nesting. As she talked about her experiences and asked questions about my young children, tears were flowing down her cheeks. She reminded me that my only job was to love them...to encourage them to become loving and healthy adults. She explained that her youngest ran away at 16. I saw the pain in this mother's eyes. She never said she was perfect but she did say, if she could do it over again...she would have been less busy with other people, work and things and would have spent more time on what really mattered...her kids.
This mother loved her daughter. There was no doubt about that. And what she said to me though, spoke volumes and gave me lots to ponder.
5 comments:
I never thought about saving for my kids' counseling! But seriously, this post resonates with me as well. I'm terrified of wrecking my kids, but I think if I spend more time loving and playing with them than worrying, then that's what really matters. That mother was very wise and it's a big blessing (thanks for the reminder) to learn the lesson sooner than later.
I think you are a fabulous mom, Andrea. I think your kids are the most respectful and kind and creative and sensitive kids around. I always loved being around them (and sad that we are far away).
Many blessings to you as you, with God's help, continue to raise them up to be amazing people.
The stresses of raising children is astronomical, isn't it? The other day I, too, was reflecting on this massive responsibility.
Great testimony from that woman you were fortunate to meet and talk to. I'm sure you won't soon forget that!
ps: hey...i tagged you over at my blog...
Yeah I worry too about messing my kids up. It's good to be reminded that the MOST important thing is to love them and drive that point home every chance we can
Thanks for this post. What an encouragement!
I think you are a fabulous mom
post free classified ads
Post a Comment