Just What I Needed

There are so many times I feel lacking as a parent. This morning was one of these times. The kids woke up with attitudes, and there seemed to be an undercurrent of mumbling that followed them around. That kind of thing is hard to curb and wears me thin.

They didn't like the cereal. Their favorite shorts weren't clean. Their little brother was playing with their things (which they hadn't put away...). They protested the "Finding Nemo" fruit snacks I set out for their lunches. The list went on. And ON.

But then, as he walked out the door to the car pool, my oldest flung back a disrespectful comment that made my mouth gape.

Why do I share this? Because it is so easy to want to throw in the towel and give up as a parent. It is so much easier to just let it slide. I did that this morning, not wanting to send him out the door in a full blown fight, and then felt like a failure for not calling him back and addressing the disrespect. Parenting is so hard sometimes. Do we have to fight every battle? Is it really worth it?

Discouraged, I sat down at my computer and began to read through a blog I came across the other day and was astounded. Right there, God spoke to me. No, not with an audible voice, though I wish he would some days! But there was an answer to the very cry of my heart this morning.

If you struggle with the tedious side of discipline, you will be encouraged. It is so worth the time to read it. It's not a long post, but it will refill your tank of resolve, something I SO much needed.

http://www.owlhaven.net/2008/09/21/sunday-122/

Thank you Owlhaven, for your encouragement.