... I can't help but wonder what they're like in private.
Today Elizabeth and I were in the bathroom at the public pool. There was a mom, who had two girls ages four and two (I guess). This mom was trying to get her youngest ready for swim lessons, the older was chatting up a storm and asking the favorite question, "why?" rather than getting ready for swim lessons. The mom turned to her and said, "Just shut up, and get ready!"
I know the frustration that she must have been feeling. I feel it all the time! Yet I was shocked at hearing that mother telling her daughter to shut up. This mom is also in Micah and my swim class, so I get to "watch" her a little more. She just seems uptight, on the edge, and not happy about being a mom.
It was convicting to me as a mom. I know that motherhood isn't always sunshine and roses. And there have been times when I've lost my "Mommy Cool". And I'm not trying to say that I'm the perfect mom. The conviction was for me to remember that in all times and even in the most frustrating situation, I should show my children Christ. That is the highest calling of motherhood, to point my children to Christ. And when I don't, I need to ask their forgiveness, and repent.
I was also reminded to savor the joy of motherhood. It seems like most of the time I am spending my time worrying about the laundry, the appointments that I might be running late for, and what's for dinner. But that's not what it's about. The time that I had with my children today, is over. I will never again get those moments back. I need to remember the blessing that my children are, and savor the joy that they bring.
There are my thoughts on motherhood for the day.... maybe even for the month! :-)
4 comments:
I know sometimes it is difficult to represent Christ when your children are screaming and you're just trying to get out of the store as quickly as possible, or whatever the circumstance, but I try to remember something I heard Marian (my sister, for those who are reading who don't know us) say. Those public moments are opportunities for Christians to display the "right" way to discipline, without screaming "shut up" or "I SAID NO!" But we should be especially gentle in those public places because the world is watching. They need to see Jesus in us. Thanks Kierstyn for the post. I needed the reminder.
--Hannah
Good reminder! Thanks!
What a good post! Through all these struggles, it's a blessing also to see our children challenging us (in the good way).
Stephen has taken to asking "Are you being nice to me, Mommy/Daddy?" The neat thing is that he asks this at very good times - like when we are showing signs of impatience toward him being a 2-year-old, etc (not when he is testing us, not getting his way, etc).
Someday I will be able to heed this advice and I can't wait. Until then, I will begin meditating and practicing yoga...oh and finding great airline deals to fly them down to YOU when I'm feeling frustrated...HA!!!
Post a Comment