I have to remind myself and my children that I AM in charge. "I AM the mother."
Bedtime is not a preference it's a need. "Go to BED now!"
Music and exercise is for fun and for keeping yourself sane. "Let's Dance!" "Micheal Jackson anyone..."
What is theirs is theirs and what is mine is theirs as well. "What a minute, WHAT."
No is a challenge word. "No, mommy I don't want to do that." "Mommy, I said, No."
Every holiday is important so keep those mental health days rolling.
Progress is the goal, not perfection. "Compromise where you can."
Parenting is literally a 24 hour nonstop rollercoaster ride. "Enough said."
It brings out the best and the worst. The lion and the lamb at times out of everyone.
Modern day parenting is Not for chumps. "We don't do that here, baby...we don't tear up the library/church/doctor's office......"
It gives us legitimate excuses to have as much fun as possible every single day because we deserve it. "Let's Jump in the car and get ice cream."
Praying at all times and in all languages is a necessity not an option. "Lord, I need some help around here." "Father, Son, and Holy Spirit...."
There are many ways to pray. I have discovered so many ways to pray by text, email, phone, and in person. Loudly, softly, or in between. You can pray by thanking folks, asking for help, or telling delightful stories. But whatever you do, Don't STOP. God is Listening! His angels are Everywhere.
It takes a whole village to raise children and teamwork makes the dream work. It's a tag team affair so be determined to tag as many people as you can to join the party.
It's okay to laugh and cry at the same time. It's normal to be overwhelmed. What is not okay is suffering in silence. Go GET your Blessings! Get Jesus on the mainline and tell Him what you need...
It's okay to use a lifeline that's why cell phones and televisions were invented. They are for the times when you need a break, pep talk, or just because it's Wednesday. "Hey, mom how are you?" "Daniel Tiger, anyone?" "Lord, Jesus someone pray for me.."
Blaming others is a way to share the load. "The Surgeon General said...." "Pastor ___ said...."
True family and friends come when you call.
I hope you had fun reading. My husband and I have the unique privilege to be able to join the parenting party a little bit later than normal, so being able to spend as much time with them is an honor. It is daunting at times, but we are truly grateful for the opportunity that we have been given. I want to thank my African villages for being there for me and mine. We only just began. Keep those prayers rolling, keep being present, and we will take care of the entertainment. Love you all.
Peace, Love, and lots of Joy and Prayers,
From the desk of Esther Kamoche Robinson
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