Friday, July 24, 2015

On Parenting

In having a conversation with my sister, I was basically complaining that most people I know are so busy with their own lives, they can't make room(time) for others. I mentioned that most Relief Society lessons or talks that I have really enjoyed emphasize the importance of giving our time. And I said, "You'd think people would learn."
My sister agreed and then stated that she hadn't learned and that made her horrible. I had an epiphany then. I told her that no, it doesn't mean she's horrible, just that she is still a child. 
It was confirmed and reiterated to me today that we are all our Father's children, and just like I have to tell my children what to do repeatedly, our Father does the same thing. 
My two year old is a very obstinate child. I have told him multiple times not to do certain things. He still does them. I've caught myself falling into the trap of thinking that a "normal" child would listen better. Then I remember how many times I had to get after my older son when he was two. And then I think about my sins and how many times I have been told to do or not do something. I realize that my Heavenly Father has made it possible for me to understand just a little bit of how he feels watching his billions of children making choices he's warned us against over and over. 
So I'm trying to take a page out of his book. He never gives up on me, and though I imagine his sorrow for every child who chooses not to listen is very deep, He continues to have open arms for all of us. He tells us to come to him for help, for forgiveness, for understanding, for peace. I want to be like that.
I want to be like the father in the parable of the prodigal son. I want my children to know that no matter how much they don't listen, I still love them. I want them to know that when they come to me I will run to them with open arms. 
So my goal this week is to remember daily how patient my Father has been with me each time I'm tempted to be frustrated and angry with my children for not listening or learning. And to remember that I am only a child in the eternal scheme of things and I have much to learn.