Lessons that I Have Learned from My Children

Lessons that I Have Learned from My Children

Being the only female in a house full of males (including the dog!) can be interesting at times. Aside from the strange smells, and the unusual sounds coming from them, life with my male tribe is something that I would not trade for all the money in the world.

While it is true that parenting teenagers are challenging at times, I have learned some valuable lessons from the boys themselves.

Lessons that I need to take to heart and apply to my life:

Be Supportive of Others Even if You Don’t Understand What They Are Doing

When I embarked on this new adventure in writing, my family has been my number one support system. Although they didn’t understand why I was doing it, they knew that it was important to me. I have heard words of affirmation and encouragement as I lock myself in my office to create blog posts, write articles and devotions that I submit to various publications and websites.

Not too long ago, I was having a little pity party for myself over something that happened – or that didn’t happen; I tend to set my expectations a little too high, and when they do not pan out, I get a little emotional. My son, Grant, took notice, and it made me realize that I was putting too much emphasis on the approval of people.

“Mom, you are doing what the Lord wants you to do, don’t worry about what others say or don’t say! Just do your thing!”

Lesson Learned: I do not need to worry about what others think.

I’ve got a fantastic support system through my family, and my sweet “She Speaks” sisters; Anastasia, Angela, and Tandy. I’ve gotten texts and messages from those who read my blog and offer encouraging words to me. I have invested in two organizations that will not only strengthen my skills as a writer but will support me every step of the way.

While encouraging words and having an audience is good, I cannot get caught up in that. My number one goal is to be obedient to the Lord and glorify Him through my words. And so I will continue to write no matter what others think.

Help One Another When They are Going Through a Tough Time

My younger son has a knack for reaching out to others in need. From leading the team in prayer over an injured player to being the person that talks to others when they are facing adversity; he is there to pray for and uplift them. Here’s the thing though; in all of those times, he has never once been the one to tell us about it. We have always heard it from a coach or another parent.

His reason? It’s not right to boast about helping someone when we should be helping one another out in the first place. The Bible states many times over and over that we are to love, be kind, and pray for one another. Our son is obeying God by being faithful to His Word.

Lesson Learned: It’s not all about me! When someone is in need of help, I need to listen, and if they ask for my advice, I will give it. I have caught myself interjecting my own related story, and twisting the conversation around to make me the focus. In this “it’s all about me” world, I need to remember that it’s not about me. It’s about Jesus Christ, His death, His resurrection, and eternal life. It’s about Him for me. Period.

God used the words and actions of my children to teach me these lessons.  These are valuable lessons that I needed to grow for Him and in Him.

Thank you, sons, for your encouragement, support, and prayers for your mom’s ministry. It means the world to me. Now, please go clean your rooms, it looks like a bomb went off in there! Love you forever and always!

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I wanted to give a special mention to my cousin, Lauren, who sent me a letter of encouragement. She is one of the few people that keep the postal services in business with her letter-writing ministry. Handwritten letters are almost a thing of the past and are to be treasured!  And Lauren, I do treasure your letters! Thank you for them and please know that the Lord is working in you mightily to further His kingdom!