Beyond Bringing Up Boys

Oh! The hats I wear! Not literally, like Zachary is doing (in this pic from SSI) but figuratively. I'm wife, mom, daughter, sister, and friend.  I'm also teacher, nurse, household organizer and planner, chief cook, laundress, house cleaner, taxi-driver, cheerleader and disciplinarian. Did you just get tired reading this list? If you're a mom, you're well acquainted with these "hats" because you wear them too. Maybe that's why one of the verses from God's word that comes to my mind most often is Galatians 6:9: And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not . Like most moms, my daily schedule is already full. My body has not completely overcome its most recent setback and I tire more easily. I find myself "weary" before I begin. I found encouragement this morning in my devotional today Jesus Today by Sarah Young: You live in a world where weakness is often pitied-or even despised. Peop...

 When Zachary’s slender hand grasps yours You lay aside your evening chores, Embarking out upon a pillowed sea. The books reclining on your knees (Yours motherhood; his history), Two spirits blend, his head leans on your arm. He doesn’t have to say, “I love you, Mom.” Seth’s plaintive cry splits pre-dawn’s calm Needing, it seems, your loving balm. His message, to the point: “Take me to Mom.” Setting the steaming mug aside You let him burrow deep, and hide, Enveloped in the solace of your warmth. He doesn’t have to say, “I love you, Mom.” Sam, snuggled in the upper bunk The drink of sleep not fully drunk Has no idea you’re already up. The mixing bowl, the flour and spice He’ll see, and lisp, “O Paradithe” And wrap two sturdy arms around your waist. He doesn’t have to say, “I love you, Mom.” Your husband rises every day And views – miraculous display – How shirts, once hampered, now hangers adorn. Somehow his bride has taught the boys, Delivered meals and picked up toys Each tas...