Every year words are removed from the dictionary for lack of relevance. It’s not surprising to see words like “cassette player” fade from modern vernacular. Still, the words we use have a lot of potential in our efforts to grow grateful kids. Certain words have staying power in a mom’s vocabulary. To grow gratitude in the hearts of our kids, we have to grab hold of four words and cultivate them in our conversations. No Children who always hear “yes” at home will anticipate “yes” from the world. Receiving a “no” isn’t only realistic, it’s routine. Daily life …
Frozen MOMents
This verse caused me to pause this morning: “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” Ephesians 5:15-17 I began to ponder the moments that have frozen in my mind at some point or another. Often when I do this, I remember slip-ups, mine to others & others to me. Betrayals. Abuses and hurts. I recall missed opportunities–with my husband, my children, my sister, my friends, that one in the grocery store, the …
Small Beginnings
When my daughter was thirteen she wrote a letter, sealed it and tucked it away. I thought that was pretty cool. “What are your plans for this letter, Meg?” “I’m not going to open it until my twenty-first birthday.” She smiled. It got me thinking, as a mom, if I could go back in time, what words of wisdom would I want myself to know? What lasting encouragement would I share? It didn’t take long to figure out the message I’d want to leave: Don’t despise the days of small beginnings. Really, Lord? I was blessed with four children. At …