I often times have to remind myself just how lucky I am to have three healthy (for the most part) children. When they are driving me bonkers, I must remember they are little and are learning.
Lately, I have needed this reminder on an hour by hour basis.
I know they are bored being out of school.
I know they are dealing with Daddy being away so much.
I know they are aware of the upcoming move and are wondering how this all works out.
I know they are 2 and 4 and are testing their limits.
In the meantime, I know that I am losing my mind.
I am exhausted and really needing a night away.
But today, I was faced with a very sad reality for some parents.
While my little ones are not forced to stay long term in a hospital, others are.
Today we distributed the 40 hospital gowns to the children's hospital.
And I fought the tears.
I saw exhausted parents.
I asked one mother where she slept while her 9 year old son was in the hospital.
She said "On a cot."
I said: "I bet that isn't very comfortable."
She said: "Not at all. But what do I have to complain about? I am lucky."
If only I could learn from her. I want that attitude.
We also met another girl. One of the other ladies asked her how old she was going to be on her birthday.
The girl said "10. And it will be my last birthday."
{I didn't hear this until after we left and it caused me to feel terrible inside.}
So, while I am complaining about the boys being too rowdy...
some parent is wishing their child could run around.
And while I am complaining that the boys are fighting...
another parent is hoping their child had enough energy to speak.
And while I am longing for some silence...
some parent has nothing but silence.
I needed today's visit. And I need to remember how fortunate I am.
4 comments:
Thank you Rachel for this blog.. I too needed a reality check! Miss you!!
That was very touching! I love your blogs. It made me think of all the times i complained even about Henry. I know God has blessed me in more ways then one. Thanks Rach for helping me cont' to fight some hatred in my heart! Love you!!
Wow. What a heart wrenching post. It is so easy to get into the day to day rut and lose perspective. To complain. To whine. To gripe. It is easy to get caught up in your little bubble and forget about the world around you. I am 100% guilty. Thanks for the reminder that kids are kids and we need to count our blessings.
Hope you are doing well! Why are the boys out of school? The move? Or some kind of break?
Thank you Rachel for reminding us all how blessed we are. It will be easier not to complain about anything. Hope your move goes well. See you when in snows!!! Love Kathy
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