There were countless times when I was raising my three children as a single mother when I felt as if my kids would never listen to me, obey me; or in the smallest sense of the word, honor me. At times I chided myself for not being firmer with them when they were little. The one thing I hated more than anything else was to see my children cry. I still cringe when I hear little children cry. I did discipline them but there were always ways that they could work out of the discipline.
This past week I was back home in Nebraska for a family reunion. I arranged the reunion for several reasons. The most important reason was a pay back to my parents for all of the times they drove from Nebraska to Texas to spend time with me and their grandchildren. They came for birthdays, Christmas and other occasions. They put a lot of effort into being a great set of grandparents for my children. My children love seeing them and unfortunately their Dad’s family doesn’t get together as much as mine does.Their Dad does a good job of keeping in touch with all of them but his family is just a bit splintered.
The second reason why I wanted to get the family together is that I have a new addition to the family. My nephew and his lovely wife had a baby last year. She is the definition of adorable and my parents had not seen her yet. My mother was about ready to grow wings and fly to Pennsylvania if someone didn’t arrange something. We all enjoyed the little girl and she was a real trooper to go from one set of arms to another so readily.
What I didn’t realize was how much I would appreciate my children during this trip. I noticed both of my sons helping my parents out, sometimes without anyone asking them. They are such gentleman. I saw my daughter take selfies with her grandmother and cause her grandmother’s face to light up in joy. My mother, who is not known for saying positive comments, stated that “she had the best grandchildren” in the world. I couldn’t agree more. My children were an honor for me to call mine.
For those of you who are single parents I want to encourage you to keep working hard to raise your children in the right way. Love them unconditionally, show them God’s grace in discipline and try hard to be a good role model. Being a good role model is the most important part of being a parent because they do follow in your footsteps. I hope for all of you that one day you will see your children as I see mine. They are a honor to call my own.
