I know as parents that we are always looking for opportunities to encourage our children. But, many times, they encourage us without really ever trying. Children speak the truth, and the younger they are, the more truth they may speak in a way. They don't realize about feelings and such at a preschool age, so if they think it, they just say it out loud (don't ask Chloe anything, you don't the answer to). It could be something as sweet as, "mommy you look pretty today" when you put on your favorite dress or something like, "There's green stuff on your teeth" when you have just eaten broccoli. OK, the last one has never happened to me personally, but the point is...they are just honest. Sometimes brutally honest, but many times to give you a little extra sunshine to your day just when you need it the most.
A few days ago Micah and I had a conversation similar to this:
Micah: I wish we'd have 2 more boys, so we'd have 3 of each.
Me: That would be nice, but we probably won't have any more children. (Teasing) We don't have room in our house for any more people anyways. We barely fit already!
Micah: Well, we could get a bigger house.
Me: Yes, we could, but that would mean that I would have to go to work full time just like Daddy. And that would mean that you'd have to go back to regular school.
Micah: Oh
Me: So, it is either we have a little house and homeschool or we have a bigger house and regular school.
Micah: (sitting here for a minute thinking) I'll take the small house!
It made me laugh, but it also was very encouraging. He is enjoying himself and beginning to discern the important things in life. Yes, Jamie and I would like a bigger house too or to buy a home someday (we are happy renters at the moment), but in the end, what matters the most? Family!
When we are near the end of our time here on earth, family is what we will reflect on in our mind's eye. We will remember the good times and the bad, but it will all be about relationships with the people in our lives and God. Jamie and I have never had much. But we have each other and 4 lovely additions that have come along the way too. God has blessed and will continue to bless. The God of the good times is the same God we worship in times of devastation, mourning, and uncertainty.
1 comment:
There were 8 of us and I never knew we were poor until I got older. The kids at school are more than happy to let you know what you don't have. We were a happy family and had each other. That is all that counts.
Pat
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