Catch-up

It has been quite awhile since I have written a new post. The main reason is that I was playing mom to my younger brother and sisters for the past two or so weeks. And dad. And boss. And still being big sister and trying to get my own things done. Let me tell you, it was quite the experience. I am sure I made many mistakes and there is a long list of things that I didn't get done. However, I have learned a few lessons. Some of them may or may not apply to you in your life, but I would like to share some of them anyway.

Lesson Number One:
When my parents left, I knew that they were entrusting the care of their children in my hands. They trusted me enough to let me watch over the welfare of something so beloved. What an amazing responsibility. I have no children of my own as of yet, but in taking care of my parents children completely while they were in another country, I felt a small part of the love and trust Heavenly Father must feel for us. He is willing and desires to entrust us with the care and upbringing of his children. He knows that we will make mistakes, as my parents did, however, He also knows how capable we are. There was also a large increase in my love and concern for my siblings when my parents left. I could feel more of my parents love for us, especially for them, than I ever had before. Imagine how much larger and whole that love is which Heavenly Father has for each us. As hard and stressful as being a parent can be at times, I cannot think of many things which are such a beautiful responsibility and blessing. How amazing it is to me that we are loved and trusted enough to take care of God's children. (I also believe this applies to missionary work as well).

Lesson Number Two:
As one of my brothers or sisters would ask permission to do something, or as I needed help with something and was trying to decide who best to ask, I realized how hard that can be at times. Each circumstance is different. To answer the question regarding plans and permission, you are trying to make a decision based upon what has happened in the past, what is current, and what will happen. What will be best for this child at this time? It can be hard to decipher all of the information and use it to help you make that best decision. When they do something wrong, you also have to decide how serious of an infraction it was for them, and what, if any punishment should be given. Wow, talk about hard. It is even more amazing to me than ever before that God is a merciful and just judge. He is able to read all the facts, to know our hearts, and make not only just a fair judgment, but also merciful. For me, it will be easier to be a parent and make some of those permission and punishment calls if there are some straight rules. That although each circumstance is different, there are still rules that every one understands must be followed, or the specific consequence will follow. For example, there is no TV or friends until after your homework is done and your room is clean. In regards to what each child is expected to do around the house, perhaps something like this might work. Each week, every one has a specific chore that they must do. In addition, each night, they take ten minutes before bed to sweep through the house and put anything or theirs that is out, away. Then on Saturday, there is a known amount of time that after the weekly chores are done, they must help with another project or chore. Trying to make the decisions mentioned above without set guidelines, gives me a much greater appreciation for the commandments and prophets counsel.

Lesson Number Three:
It never stops. There is always something in the inbox. No matter how much you get done one day, there will still be more that can be done tomorrow. And true though that may be, it is also not worth stressing about. It will always be there and will keep coming. Yes, try to do all that you can, but don't over-do it. You and your family will be happier if you are willing to relax. Do what you can, but don't be so zealous about doing it all, that you create an atmosphere of anxious stress and tension. There are of course things that must be done today, and I am in no way encouraging procrastination, there is a balcance. Just remember that it will be there tomorrow. There will always be something. Don't worry over what needs to be done to a point where you are not enjoying life and time with your family. You will never get everything done, and it is OKAY. If you don't expect things to be perfect and get everything done now, but keep working at it, you will usually surprise yourself with how much you do get done.

Lessson Number Four:
Even when a child is throwing a tantrum, don't yell. They will get over it much quicker if you don't play into their hands and don't react.

Lesson Number Five:
Schedules are helpful. Even more helpful is family prayer and scripture study.

These are just a few of the things I learned or more fully recognized during these past few weeks. I know that there is much more for me to learn and make progress in, but once again, there always is. So long as I keep going, I will get things done and probably surprise myself with it. As much as I did enjoy my time as mom and the things I have learned, I am grateful that it is not permanent yet and I do not have to start with two teenagers and one pre-teen!