Monday March 31st, 2008
During the middle of a back-arching tantrum, it is so difficult to remember the sweetness of her crib-songs. And when she is returning to the drawer I continually tell her not to touch so that I cannot prepare dinner, I might forget her kissable cheeks and two-year-old smile.
When the giggles are gone for the evening and there are only the whines that childishly try to make a defense as to why brushing her teeth each night is unnecessary, it is hard to think about her laughter.
Beauty is quickly forgotten. Just like they each forget their smiles from the minute before. But then so are the tantrums.
I am a mother, and I am wiser than my daughters. I can choose to remember, and I can bring to mind their imperfect perfection and their embarrassed grins. I can choose to discipline like a good parent should, but then open my arms wide to their affections after the pain is forgotten. I can choose not to hold grudges and to instead hold little hands.
I love this. Especially the last line–I think it sums up motherhood beautifully–we moms hold little hands as we teach and model and lead and learn. Even in moments when it’s hard for us to do so!
Awesome picture. I love your words Sarah.
Beautiful picture of your precious girls!
I loved this post Sarah! It is so true, how easily we can forget the good things when they tantrum but when the tantrum is over you just see the good things – the smiles, the tenderness, the laughter.
Once again Sarah, wonderful, perfect insight to life as a mother.
AMEN! and remember their beauty we must. I find myself each night, sitting over their beds, holding every beautiful moment from the day in my heart. i never remember the tantrum (my heart may ache from what it stole from us), but i always store up for myself treasures.
Okay… I must be going crazy because I thought I commented already. Maybe not. Maybe I just thought I did. :/ Maybe I’m going crazy!
I love the last line of this post. Being a mom is the greatest responsibility we will ever face. It amazes me that He trusts us to get right. The emotional ups and downs are worth it, but when they love us back, even after the attitudes… it sure does melt my heart.
Ah, yes, maturity. I can’t say that it always belongs to me, but I do try… and hope that what little I have is contagious. It’s amazing how quickly I can also become a little girl again!
I’m a friend of Annie Downs and found your blog from hers. I have almost 4 year old and 16 month old daughters and needed to read that. Thanks!