As I near the end of this series on {re}building family and what it takes to really have a strong family, I’ve thought about the consistency needed in parenting. All the experts say it’s crucial, and I agree, but boy is it hard to pull off.
I want to require first time obedience but my heart for mercy can often win out. And just when I think my kids need a good reminder about cleaning up after themselves in the kitchen, I roll up my sleeves and tell myself it’s job security.
So, today, I’m taking a light look at some of the paradoxes in the journey of parenting. And Friday, Lord wiling, I’ll cover the last installment in 31 days to {re}building family.
Paradoxes in Parenting
Some days, I imagine my house with the clean lines of that magazine living room or that airy French white kitchen.
Most days, I rearrange the vignette on my fingerprinted fridge to add one more handcrafted picture for the classic layered look.
Some days, I summon, again, and remind, again, to pick up socks and put away shoes wondering when this lesson will ever take.
Other days, I scoop up sneakers left at the door, quietly put them on the shelf and remind myself “this is what a mom does.”
Some days, I just neeeed to get away to the mall and shop for myself like the old days.
Most days, after lots of looking, I can’t really find anything that fits but I do have two adorable new outfits for my girl.
Some days, I’m so proud that my child stepped up to do that hard thing I think I might bust wide open.
Other days, I stare blankly and wonder “What – were – you – thinking?”
Some days, I wake up all set for a day of raw juice and salads and lean turkey and greens.
Other days, I realize most of my calories came from grazing their goldfish snack, finishing my child’s sandwich at lunch and keeping her ice dream from melting at the play place.
Some days, I could hardly wait for date night to begin and time with my man to rekindle romance over a restaurant meal.
Most days, we spent nearly all of our time away from kids talking about our kids and then calling on the way home to make sure they were okay.
Some days I can barely find the girl I started as, lost in feedings and carpools and homework and sore throats and sticky floors.
But most days, I realize the rich beauty is in the ordinary and that pouring out brings full life.
God also delights in a life of paradox ~
Whoever finds their life will lose it,
and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.
Matthew 10:39
But many who are first will be last,
and many who are last will be first.
Matthew 19:30
For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:10
For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled,
and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
Luke 14:11
But whatever were gains to me
I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
Philippians 3:7
You can read all posts in the 31 days to {re}building family series here or subscribe at the top of the page.
Excellent, as always!! Thanks, I needed that.