I was buying birthday flowers for Bry's mom at my favorite shop. First off, they have the best flowers. I walked around picking out random things I liked and made this ensemble with a big plant that looks like a cabbage. Pretty cool, huh?
The girls were with me and while Poppy was trying to tell me which flowers I had to choose, Cetty was pulling handfuls of plants out of buckets and generally just destroying everything she could reach. I noticed that the store owner seemed unusually gentle and patient, and I was glad for that.
She talked to the girls and asked what their favorite flowers and colors were. I assumed she was making conversation, but the next thing I knew she was handing the girls each a rose to take home. So sweet. I, on the other hand, wasn't feeling quite so patient and tried to hurry in an effort to limit the damage done to the cute little shop.
I was loading the girls up in the car when I heard a voice behind me. The store owner was standing there in the parking lot. I was a little confused at this point. Did I leave something (quite possible)? Then she said, "I just felt like God wanted me to tell you that you're a really good mom. Keep doing what you're doing." She was so sincere and had such a soft, quiet spirit. I really did feel like I was hearing from God through this woman. I didn't know what to say so I hugged her. I felt like I was going to cry.
I've thought about that incident several times since it happened. It makes me want to take every chance I have to encourage other moms out there. So if you're a mom, this is me encouraging you. God bless you for loving His kids and keep doing what you're doing.
The reason I thought about the flower shop lady tonight is because it was a tough week with the girls. Yes, Cetty is in a horribly difficult stage. She's defiant, unbelievably destructive, and so very exhausting. But I think it's really my issue. I've had such a short fuse. I've yelled, over-reacted, been lazy and selfish, felt sorry for myself, and been an all-around bad example to my girls of what a mother is meant to be.
I'm not a good mom. I've been humbled enough times to know that. But God is a good God, and He offers forgiveness, encouragement, and grace. Over and over again. I don't deserve that and I don't deserve the experience of being a mom to two precious girls.
That's what I need to remember tomorrow when Poppy is whining and Cetty is throwing my toothbrush in the toilet, coloring on the rug, and emptying the cereal boxes on the kitchen floor for the ten-thousandth time.
9 comments:
LOVE this post. Thanks for sharing. I love how the woman took the time to come outside to share that with you. And I love your honesty with how hard it really can be to parent. I can relate!
Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for sharing this! I've had two rough parenting weeks in a row (mostly due to my own sin) but also because I've forgotten that my little guy is learning right alongside me. With bringing Cecilia home, I've felt much more distracted and guilty for not taking as much time to teach with a loving heart rather than a quick harsh tone. I've been in tears a few times this and last week myself ;(
It seems like some older women are really stepping up to encourage the younger moms in the middle of chaos. I really love it!
Such a sweet story and sweet lady - love it that she took the time to tell you that. I completely understand your stage with Cetty - I'm right there with Creighton and definitely find myself annoyed and worn down far too often. And you are a good mom.. hang in there :)
Great post. Totally relate. And those flowers are beautiful. Makes me want to go out and get some to brighten up our home.
I loved that bouquet from the first time on saw it on mom's kitchen table. I thought it really was cabbage :) And it's neat to hear a cool story behind it too.
awww...that is the sweetest thing! :)
Loved this post, Ashton. Thanks for sharing-- when I was reading it, it was almost like that owner was speaking to me :)
How cool! This inspires me to listen to the spirit when j get nudges to say things to people--you just never know how it may bless them and others! Miss you Ash-merry Christmas!
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