I just read Lorri Flem's TEACH e-newsletter that included a story about when she was leaving from her mom's house in Eastern WA for a 3 hour ride back home with 7 of her children, and wouldn't you know... she couldn't find her keys. This was my introduction to read a wonderful article at her blog about the art of yelling... Well not an art, but a very poor parenting habit.
I had a very similar experience one time. Ok, I confess.. many times, but 1 that will always will always be in the forefront of my mind. We were getting ready to go somewhere, important I am sure *Ü*, and I couldn't find my keys anywhere. I accidentally locked my bedroom door and was certain the keys were in there. I tired coaxing Mike to climb a ladder and climb in through the window, but like me, he is afraid of heights. This tactic/plan would never work.
Greg was in Japan, I didn't have anyone to call and get suggestions or support. I just prayed. And wouldn't you know it, all of a sudden a lock-smith comes around the corner of our street. HALLELUJAH! I was certain that he was sent from God to help me. *Ü* I flagged him down, told him my story, and asked him how much it would cost to open my door. He said since he was in the area it would only be $30. I happily paid and was soooo excited when he opened that door for me.
I went inside my room and couldn't find those keys anywhere... So we all stayed home...
Later that same day I was doing laundry and wouldn't you know. My keys were in the laundry basket that is located in the laundry room. I just couldn't believe it! And no, it wasn't my laundry that I was doing, but some how my keys got mixed up in the kids laundry that was brought downstairs.
Being a mother of 5 children (or 1, 2, 3, etc.) can be a little challenging at times. When things don't always go as I plan, I am running late/behind, kids are disobedient, etc... sometimes I don't take the time to stop-drop-and roll. I also need to remember that God is there with me always, watching my behavior, etc. and that I can turn to him, pray, ask for patience, a gentle spirit, and help. I need to remember, that I am setting the example on how my children will parent.
Being a parent, whether you're a mom or a dad can be challenging at times. But always remember they are with us for such a short time. And it helps to remember what the other animals sing to Herby* : "Have patience, have patience, don't be in such a hurry. When you get impatient, you only start to worry. Remember, remember, that God is patience too and think of the times when others have to wait for you."
I truly appreciated this article and it reminded me of things I already knew, but don't always do... Don't you just love those types of articles. *Ü* I hope others with children, or grandchildren, will enjoy it and appreciate this little reminder.
To read the article just click on this: Yell-Stopping Steps After you read the article, check out the rest of the website: Teach Magazine .
If you would like to subscribe to the e-newsletter, click here: TEACH Newsletter.
*Song is from, Music Machine: The Fruit of the Spirit. My favorite tape when I was a little girl.
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