Having parented

The last few weeks have been particularly hard, parenting wise. I love being a mama, but if you have little ones, you know what this means. Some weeks are good, some weeks are just hard. It doesn't take some big huge thing to throw you for a loop. It could be something small, but it still rocks your world...and just because it's small doesn't make it any less significant.

There's just so much that goes along with raising little ones, knowing you're responsible for how someone turns out is pressure-filled, to say the least. There's just so much at stake. Yes, they have their own personalities and can make their own choices, but we help shape and mold them. Parenting is such a blessing, but it can be difficult too. And becoming discouraged is so, so easy. I've been discouraged about 450 times this week alone. That is why I am so grateful for people, for prayer, for truth, but mostly for Jesus.

I read an article today called Don't Carpe Diem. If you are struggling with your little ones and need encouragement, read it. She talks about how everyone always tells you to enjoy every moment of parenting, because they go by so fast, but that way of thinking just doesn't work for her. It, in fact, makes her panicky and paranoid, and makes her feel that if she's not living in that constant state, then she's doing something wrong. Do you know why I love this article? It's raw, honest, and you know what? I think it's ok. I think it's ok that she doesn't love every single second of parenting. It makes me feel like something isn't wrong with me because a lot of times, I feel that way too. Parenting IS hard, but there are good moments too. She says it like this: 
"Last week, a woman approached me in the Target line and said the following: 'Sugar, I hope you are Enjoying this. I loved every single second of parenting my two girls. Every single moment. These days go by so fast.'
There was a famous writer who, when asked if he loved writing, replied, 'No. but I love having written.' What I wanted to say to this sweet woman was, 'Are you sure? Are you sure you don't mean you love having parented?"'


So true. While I don't always love parenting, I love having parented. And I love my kids. So, so much. 

Things I am most grateful for this past week:
My husband. He is having a hard time also, but I just love him. He can admit when he's struggling, and while he's struggling, he still encourages, supports and prays for me.

My accountability group and my sister, who have lifted us up so fervently in prayer and with encouraging words.

The promises and hope I have in Jesus. That I can trust Him. Without His help, I am certain I would not be able to do this.

If I have any words of wisdom, it's this. Hang in there. Keep at it. And you are not alone. :)

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