I have been reading (and re-reading) A Mother's Heart by Jean Fleming. The subtitle is A look at values, vision, and character for the Christian mother. I have really learned a lot from it and have been trying to apply it. It is a little overwhelming, but biblical and practical ~ I keep reminding myself to take it in baby steps (hence why I have to re-read it). Well I am about mid-way through the book and this struck a cord with me. I will be printing and putting up several copies for myself. At the end she challeges readers to meditate on it and rewrite it for themselves. I may or may not get there....but here is her paraphrase.
If I keep my house immaculately clean, and am envied by all for my interior
decorating, but do not show love in my family~I'm just another housewife.
If I'm always producing lovely things~sewing, art; if I always look attractive,
and speak intelligently, but am not loving to my family~I am nothing.
If I'm busy in community affairs, teach Sunday school, and drive in
the carpool but fail to give adequate love to my family~I gain nothing.
Love changes diapers, cleans messes, and ties shoes~over and over again.
Love is kind, though tired and frazzled.
Love doesn't envy another wife~one whose children are "spaced"better,
or in school so she has time to pursue her own interests.
Love doesn't try to impress others with my abilities or knowledge as a mother.
Love doesn't scream at the kids.
Love doesn't feel cheated because I didn't get to do what I wanted to do today~
sew, read, soak in the hot tub.
Love doesn't lose my temper easily.
Love doesn't assume that my children are being naughty
just because their nose level is irritating.
Love doesn't rejoice when other people's children misbehave and make mine look good.
Love is genuinely happy when others are honored by their children.
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