Most things in our lives come with an instruction
book/guide. The car has a manual and before we drive a car we even get a
“learner’s permit”. We must study and pass a couple tests before we are allowed to legally drive. The microwave, the
television, the cell phone, the stereo – they all come with instruction
manuals. But what about parenting? Before our son was born, Stephen and I tried to prepare ourselves for each month of pregnancy (
milestones, what to plan for at each appointment, etc.) and then eventually the birth. After Grady was born however, everything we had read and felt like we understood was put to the ultimate test. How tight is a diaper supposed to be, in order to prevent leakage, without squishing their internal organs up into their throat? What's the best way to suction a stuffy nose, without your child screaming as though you're sucking the brain right out of their skull? How do other parents deal with having to change their work attire, immediately after putting it on, after their child has projectile vomited in a manner seen only in horror films? Though I greatly suggest reading the "What to Expect..." series, I must also give credit to the numerous Bible verses that I have recited (
like a personal mantra) in the times when I felt lost or the most inadequate in my role as a parent...
Psalms 127:3-5 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.
James 1: 2-8 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and
sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds...let perseverance finish
its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Ecclesiastes 7:8 The end of a matter is better than its beginning...
Colossians 1:11 ...Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience...
Parenting is truly an adventure, filled with teachable moments (
for both ourselves and our children)... struggles and triumphs... and I wouldn't want to be on this journey with anyone else (
Stephen).
I thank the Lord everyday for a man who truly loves and understands me and who is the greatest father I could hope for, for my son. Already, this journey has been fast and furious but, we've enjoyed every moment and plan on enjoying many more to come!
