Adventures in Parenting

My mother told me that if she had a college education like me, she would be out working instead of being a stay- at -home mom.

My mom was a devoted mom, but with 4 kids within 6 years, she probably went insane and wished to get out of the house. Have you ever felt that way?

At one time, I had three kids under age three. Some days I barely survived. There were days when I didn’t even change out of my pajamas. I became ill-tempered, irritable, depressed, and just plain tired.

If you are feeling tired and burned out —  don’t quit!

Sleep and a decent meal will obviously help. But I have another suggestion that I’ve found to be pivotal in preventing and getting past burn out.

Regain Your Perspective

We are often so occupied with the clean ups and laundry that parenting seems like just a “job” to get done. We are the housekeeper, the babysitter, the disciplinarian. Who would want a “job” like that with no pay, no recognition, and no time off ? If viewed that way, of course we get burned out and want out.

But wait a minute – A parent is more than the sum total of his/her chores.

The chores are actually just the minor details. When we consider the greater purposes of being parent, it will energize us to get through the mundane.

Focus on the True Purpose of Being a Parent

Why do I stay at home to raise my kids?

1. I want to pass on values and morals to my children that reflect what is most important to me. No one can take my place to do that.

2. I want my children to grow up in and look back to a warm a loving home. No one else can do that for my children.

3. I want to study my children and know them well inside and out, so that I can properly guide them according to their God-given gifts. No one else can do that better than I.

4. I want to be there to experience my children’s growing experiences with them, to share their joys and pains, and be there as a comfort and friend. No one can care as much as I care.

5. I want to have the privilege of laughing with them, and discovering the pleasures of life with them. No one can take that prerogative from me.

Take just a moment, stand outside your door and gaze up at the vast open sky. Consider the bigger picture of what you do as a parent.

I hope you will be renewed and strengthened with energy and resolve.