19-5-2008 - My Son told me...

My mood while writing this blog: content

Yesterday was another beautiful Sabbath. We worshipped and took communion then headed out for lunch at the Cowboy Cafe. This is a little hole-in-the-wall restaurant in a hole-in-the-wall hippie town with one bathroom, good food, and good prices. We were several in a crowd, but I got to sit with Tom on my left and Coleman (my eldest) on my right. As the latter is preparing for the impending birth of his first child (Angie will be admitted the night of the 28th!!) we were discussing the labor of birth and of childrearing. And he had this little tidbit to offer me:

He said that there were times growing up that he knew I had wronged him, but that it made it go down easier because I when I did figure it out, I apologized. He said that he thinks it has made him a better "apologizer" and I agree. He is growing into a man of wonderful integrity, strong AND humble. I wish you could meet him.

Now, I knew that raising my sons ~ the very hearts of my heart ~ was the most joyful AND the most HUMBLING task that I ever had experienced; I knew how much it all meant to ME but it was so good to hear him remember things and to have them mean much to HIM! And I am amazed at God's abundant grace toward this bumbling Mother!!

I share this because I want to encourage you new Mom's, AND encourage myself as I embark on a another voyage of parenting! :) Share the joy, show the love (and I'm a firm believer that this includes strong discipline that they can count on!), and NEVER be afraid to apologize to your little one when you, no matter how well-meant, have sinned against him.

My word of "wisdom" (that has been hard won!) for the day! :)

God bless you all.