something to think about

Children are not tomatoes to stake out or mules to train, nor are they numbers to plug into an equation. They are full human beings wondrously and fearfully made. Parenting, like all tasks under the sun, is intended as an endeavor of love, risk, perseverance, and, above all, faith. It is faith rather than formula, grace rather than guarantees, steadfastness rather than success that bridges the gap between our own parenting efforts, and what, by God's grace, our children grow up to become. Leslie Leyland Fields

Another Year

It's that time of year again. I'm not talking about the New Year (as in 2010) - I am completely caught up in THE new year (as in, the little boys will be 6 years old tomorrow!). There have been plenty of opportunities for reflection these past few weeks as this special day approaches. And I have been as weepy as always as I am reminded how miraculous their existence is and recall their fragile entry into this world. We've watched some videos of their babyhood, looked at photos, remembered.


I am so proud and humbly grateful for who they are becoming. Something that happened just this afternoon, simple and relatively insignificant to anyone else, brought tears to my eyes as we sat in a busy waiting room full of children with a broad range of disabilities, some very significant . A small act of grace by a 5 (almost 6 :) year old boy. Without prompting from a parent, without knowledge he was being watched - just sweet and genuine concern for the well being of another child, his lovely little heart in the right place.


And later over our evening meal, a discussion about a new child at school. A child who is having trouble adjusting and has been acting out, not too kindly, to those around. A telling of a talk with a teacher and a decision to show this child kindness in return, despite the mean spirited things being done, so this child might learn - by their example - to use words and be peaceful. (I might add here that I adore this lovely and gracious teacher who so clearly lives and shares the very best vision of Maria Montessori).


Small, simple daily tasks that are too difficult for a little boy with a broken arm (guess who) - being done for him by his brothers - every day - without being asked.


I could be here all night making this list but the point is this - I adore these amazing little boys. And I am thankful, so very thankful for the privilege of watching them grow into such wonderful human beings.


It's going to be a GREAT new year!

Happy New Year

Feeling challenged and inspired by this right now. A lot to consider in the next few days as I look ahead to this brand new year.