It's been potty-training time again. We started a little over a month ago, but our daughter seemed to get bored of it. We left it alone and came back to it this week. I have to admit, I was very intimidated by it. There is not too much that intimidates me in parenting (so far), but this potty training thing is scary. I mean, this is for real....the kids have to learn to potty ON THEIR OWN. Having to be on top of it every second is tiring. I already have a headache today from running her to the potty every time she said something about #1 or 2. :o) But, to her credit, she has 10 stickers up today on her potty chart!
So, why am I bringing up my daughter's bodily functions? For one, I am very excited that today was a very successful day. She seems to really understand when the urge is coming, what she is supposed to say and do. It's only day 2 of what I assume will at least take a week, but we achieved everything today. So, here's to hoping we're done with diapers by the end of the week (at least during the day)! Maybe I shouldn't have feared it so much after all.
The other reason I am writing is very personal. I have been extremely stressed out lately. In fact, I have noticed some old depression-esque habits creeping back. We have just been in a tough stretch, as is everyone, mostly dealing with the economic crisis. After watching my baby so excited about using the potty correctly and at the right time, something hit me. She doesn't worry about the simple things - the things she needs. They will come, and when they do, they are welcome. Getting a sticker is just an extra blessing to her. She's not using the potty because of the stickers, she's doing it because it's time.
And here I am, trying my best to stay humble, but grumbling every step of the way about unpaid bills, grocery needs and upcoming necessary expenses. After talking to some of my friends lately and seeing what everyone is going through, I realized I need some perspective. I need to realize that my needs WILL be met and that things really COULD be worse. If the LORD is allowing me to go through this, why would He not prepare me and equip me to endure my simple hardships?
I used to always point the finger at people who worried about things that to me were not necessary - but why am I worried about the simple things - the daily needs of life? Where is my faith? Now I realize, if there is ANYTHING we definitely should NOT worry about, it's the simple things. We know to whom we belong - and He is faithful. He clothes us, feeds us and shelters us, even though we don't deserve it. And regardless of how He decides to provide for us, He is worthy of our praise and our faith just for the sake of Who He is. The LORD gives and the LORD takes away - BLESSED BE THE NAME OF THE LORD!
1 comment:
Amen! I've been praying so greatly for you. God has been showing us a lot lately about His provision. I'll have to share a story with you soon about one thing He provided...I'll send an email soon. I'm so excited about what He is teaching you and how He is encouraging you. I'll keep praying, especially protection over your heart and mind through this time. I saw some of the same patterns peek their heads back up in my sweet hubby this week, and it reminded me that such things never totally disappear - they have to be kept in check by prayer and focus. Love you!
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