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Help, I'm a new mom again!



Have you ever re-visited something in your mind, over and over again, hoping to rehearse an upcoming conversation, or maybe correct one?  I find that happens to me as I sometimes put my foot in my mouth when I speak with one of my kids.  I find myself bumbling through a conversation and when I hang up I wonder, ā€œWhy did I say that?ā€  I blame it on the awkwardness of talking on a cell phone, the distance in miles that limits a heartfelt conversation, or just my inability to remember I was once their age.   

Thankfully, my sister helped me put things in perspective.  Iā€™m not their mother anymoreā€¦in a sense.  Iā€™m not here to give advice, unless they ask.  Iā€™m here to be a companion in their journey.  To hold on very loosely so they can experience their lives, just like I had to.  I donā€™t think my parents had much insight into what I was experiencing when I was 25 or 30.  They were living their lives.  And so am I, but I want to be connected to my kids.  There is a difference, though, with connection vs. control.  

The Bible saysā€¦My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to angerā€¦James 1:19-20.  But James says moreā€¦ But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincereā€¦James 3:17.    

The word sincere really jumped out at me.  Sounds like the opposite of control.  Lord, let my conversation be about them, not me.  Let me be sincere.  Thatā€™s my prayer.  Maybe, Iā€™ve given them the wisdom they need for right where they are now.  Maybe, itā€™s up to God to bring along other people and situations that will share insight, instruction and good advice to their hearts.  And if, by chance, He decides to use me, I will do it with His peace, and gentleness.  So here is more to my little prayer.  Lord, help me to be quick to listen and slow to speak, knowing fully my children are in your hands.  Help me to be a good travel companion.  

Am I new mom?  No, I think I am a growing one.

Comments

  1. Very astute. I am a growing one as well - with kids now ranging from 19 - 31. I could totally relate to this post, and love the verse you used. Thanks for sharing from the heart!

    ReplyDelete
  2. aww thank you for this loving reminder.

    ReplyDelete

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