Saturday, November 29, 2008

Gratefullness


"It’s easy to blame chronic childishness on an over-cautious parent, an over-protected upbringing, a controlling mother, etc. However, nothing will keep an adult from acting like an adult, except his own childishness — just as nothing will keep a Christian from living like a Christian except his own sin. If we say our circumstances make us think and act like children, the solution is four words: Repent and Grow Up."--The Botkin Sisters

I have so many blessings in my life. I have some obvious ones: I am married to the man that I still desire, I have 7 awesome kids, I have a wonderful church and circle of genuine friends (some I am related to and some not).

One thing I am becoming more and more thankful for is a gift my mom gave me. It is the gift of maturity. My mom let me go to Africa when I was sixteen. That is a huge step. That just earmarked her whole attitude. She was raising children to adulthood. We always knew that she would be sad when we were old enough to be on our own, but that was also right and good. It is funny because now we have a friendship that is based on respect. We don't always agree, but we work it out respectfully like adults.

I am thankful that my mom did this for me. It is a wonderful gift and it is one that I hope and pray to pass on to my children. I pray that God would use them in in great and mighty ways.

I am also grateful because it is a gift that cost my mom a lot. She was not handed that as a child. She conciously made choices to make our relationship better than she had with her mom. I am thankful and mindful of the cost my mom paid.

3 comments:

Rebecca said...

Your mom allowed you to travel to Africa when you were 16 and I am having a hard time allowing Justin to travel in a car to Fischer's with a friend. I think I may have some issues!!!

Heath Clan said...

Well, I wasn't going to say anything, but since you bring it up...
Just kidding...
You are a great mom. If you didn't have any issues, you would be perfect and no fun to be around. I mean really, hula-dancin' in your skivvies that is an issue. You sure are fun though. I have issues too. If you want a list I am sure my kids could give you one.

Our Chamberlian Actions said...
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