Train Up A Child

Today, I had an epiphany. Well, it kind of started last night at church. We had a lady come speak to the ladies last night, and she started out by saying that she had something else planned, but God changed those plans and she was going to speak about training up our children. Well, after the day I had yesterday with the children, I just knew God was speaking directly to me. So, while I had some alone time today while the kids were in mom's morning out, I did a little reflecting and praying about what I should do.

And, you know, it always starts with yourself. And, since the first few days since Nathan left my attitude hasn't been the best. I have just thought, "Woe is me. I have to raise four children five and under by myself. I can't do this. Why me?" and so forth. But, you know, I CAN do this. Even if I don't get much sleep at night. And even if the kids are cranky and don't want to obey. You know, it is my JOB to train them to react properly even in those circumstances. I kind of forgot that. I was like, "Why isn't my two year old obeying me? She should know..." But, she doesn't know. She needs me to teach her what to do, not yell at her for not doing what I want her to do.

So, today I had to lay down some new rules for the kids. But more importantly, I had to change my outlook and my attitude and my tone. Yes, things take a lot longer and yes, sometimes it is painfully slow and I don't get to do what I want. But, that is what it is to be a parent and train our children. They learn so much more by what we do, instead of what we say. (Although what we say is also very important!)

And you know what? Today went much more smoothly than any other day this week. Even with having to bathe all four kids tonight....not one of my favorite chores!