So many things rally for attention in our minds and emotions as parents. Managing all the schedules and to-do’s for work, kids’ activities, holiday events, and family gatherings. Helping kids navigate issues with friends, classmates, or schoolwork. Trying to keep up with meals, laundry, housework, and (maybe) exercise. Attending to the unique needs of our own parents, a child with special needs, a newborn, or someone close to us who’s in crisis. It’s a lot.
May we remember to be thermostats more than thermometers. We won’t be perfect at it, but if we can intentionally set the emotional tone in situations instead of reacting to and absorbing emotions that get heated or end in icy silence, then we can offset a few rough scenarios.
Many years ago, I read an article that included four affirmations for parents. I didn’t save the source, so I don’t know who to attribute it to, but I wrote these 4 statements on a piece of paper that I kept in my closet for a long time as a daily reminder – right at eye level where I’d see it every day.
Different statements were more relevant depending on the day or situation, but often at least one of them was something I needed to remember. They’re applicable for toddlers through teens and can be edited to apply to spouses, friends, coworkers, employers… or anyone with whom we have a relationship!
My children were created for a specific reason and are a gift to me!
We’re on a good journey despite our ups and downs.
God may use these difficulties for good and wise purposes.
I can be OK even when my children are not.
Each of them can be used as a breath prayer, too. Inhale as you pray the first part of the sentence; exhale with the second. Repeat – as often as needed – as you mentally seek God’s peace and wisdom to do the next needed thing.