My Secret Gift

Sometimes I'm too negative and critical of this little boy. Sometimes my criticism is silent and sometimes it is loud. He doesn't learn like his sister. He doesn't like to do the same things as his sister. He can't sit still, and he struggles with focus and following instructions. He is often a square peg that I try to fit in a round hole (hard to admit because I speak up so much against doing this to children - very hypocritical).

Then the Lord blesses me with encouragement. He proves once again He loves my son more than I do and His plans and His ways are higher and better than mine. A sweet, elderly lady from church called to tell me how much my son means to her. She told me when he sees her coming, he opens the door for her, and gives her a hug. She told me she lives in pain, but that little boy of mine gives her such love and joy that for a moment when she sees his smile and feels his hug, she forgets her pain. In these moments I thank the Lord for His work in my son's life. I take a moment to focus on areas of his life to praise, rather than criticize.

This year, I want to be a mother who gives my son the grace he needs, to be who God created him to be. I want to bless, strengthen, and encourage him rather than quickly criticize and compare him to others (whether silently or loudly).

Today, is my boy's 9th birthday, and this is my secret gift to my son. May I be slow to speak and quick to listen to him (James 1:9). May my words bless, encourage, inspire, and encourage him to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). I pray through my thoughts, words, and actions, that this secret gift will soon be revealed to my son every single day.

Happy Birthday to my firstborn! I love you like crazy, and I'm so thankful God let me keep you!