This profound thought is taped above my sink so I am daily reminded of it. It’s from a book by Carrie Bender but I didn’t write down the title; I do know it’s from the Miriam’s Journal Series. If my children are ever blessed with children, I want them to know this.
“There is no greater task than that of being a parent. Sometimes the awesomeness of parenthood is almost overwhelming. Such innocent little souls are entrusted to our care, souls that will live for all eternity. Such a big responsibility! The knowledge that I am a weak, imperfect parent is almost staggering.
“O God, give me the wisdom I need to discipline wisely, never in anger. Help me to live so that if my children model me, they will have a beautiful character and personality. Help me to keep their little emotional tanks filled to the brim with love, and to instill within them a sense of self-worth and belonging.
“Let me tell them Bible stories and speak of your wondrous creations of nature—birds, flowers, trees, stars. Shape my life and words to speak of your wondrous love, so they think of you as the Giver of all good things, with infinite care and provision. Amen.
“Children need warm, outgoing affection daily. They all need the comforting arm of love even when they do not deserve it. In fact, they need it most of all then, as much as they need food and fresh air.
“Children need praise and appreciation, and if they do not receive it, they will search for it in odd, sometimes hurtful ways. If we want to help others become beautiful people, we should work at it through sincere praise and encouragement. We all need warmth and tenderness to change for the better. Let each day be a hunting trip—hunting for something good in each child to compliment and give sincere praise for.”
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