It’s getting cool. Not cold really, but definitely cool enough I’ve pulled out my long pants and long sleeves and socks! I’m putting my sandals away. However, all four of my boys think it is still shorts weather. And flip flops.
Please tell me I’m not the only mom who just eventually throws my hands in the air and says, “If you want to run around cold all day and pretend you aren’t – go ahead and dress like it’s still summer.” Because really, how can it possibly be comfortable to wear shorts when it’s a breezy, cloudy 60º? But we have to pick our battles, you know?
We are driving home tomorrow from the midwest, and everyone is picking out shorts and flip-flops to wear for the ten-hour trip. I’m not going to name any names, but I am absolutely positive that at least one of my boys is going to end up complaining about the cold and wanting a change of clothes.
Here’s the thing. I make mistakes all the time. I like to think my way is the best way and often choose to ignore God’s leading. It’s a good thing He is a God of grace! Sing it with me now: “Our God is a God of second chances.” Most days, I’m pretty sure that parenting is really all about refining the parent and a lot less about refining the child than we think. Because every time my children choose to ignore my leading and make a mistake, I see a reflection of myself.
However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Acts 20:24
So in my parenting I try to be full of grace – to be a testimony of God’s grace in our lives. I don’t always succeed. Sometimes I yell and/or fuss. Sometimes I really do have to say no in order to parent well. I actually like to say yes whenever I can, but sometimes no is the right answer. Pretty often actually.
And sometimes grace “full” parenting means letting the kids have their own way, letting them experience the consequences of their mistake, and then helping them when they are ready to ask for help. Giving grace when they are ready to receive it.
So I’ll be putting some warm clothes for the little boys where I can get to them during the trip. And I’m planning to drive through somewhere and get a round of hot chocolate for all.
I’m absolutely right there with you. Yesterday while at the park my little guy took off his shirt and ran around. Oh the looks I got. But instead of arguing and getting mad when he wouldn’t but his shirt back on I just simply waited till he got cold and asked for it. There are things to get upset about and things that they will figure out on their own with out harm.