Contentment
I read a newspaper
article recently that was identifying the trend for ‘mummy bloggers’ to focus
on the negative aspects of motherhood. These type of articles receive rave
reviews for their honesty and transparency. Those who write articles sharing
how much they love parenting are loudly disapproved off.
It seems it is trendy
to complain.
There is no doubt
that parenting is hard work.
Sleepless nights.
Unwell children.
Sibling rivalry.
Constant whining.
Never-ending piles of
washing.
Yet the joys of
parenting are immense.
Cuddles and kisses.
Beautiful smiles.
The sweet ‘I love
you’.
The delight of the
first step, the first word spoken.
The pride in the
first attempts at writing, counting and reading.
So should we complain
about the hard bits of parenting or magnify those treasured memory moments?
Maybe a balance is
best.
Parenting, like any
occupation has good days and bad days.
We can acknowledge
the hard moments, the hard days and the hard seasons. Yet we can choose to
focus on the positive aspects, the snippets of fun and light in the middle of
the busyness. We can choose to see the good and we can choose to remember the
best of each day.
Each night I write in
my journal. Most nights, it is only a few lines. Occasionally I write a whole
page. I record one thing I am thankful for. I write why I am thankful for that.
This is such a simple act that takes only a minute or two in my day.
Yet it is so
powerful. My eyes are open to the little moments in the day. My heart is open
to enjoying that special moment. I treasure that small act of kindness. I value
the interaction with a friend or colleague or child. I am more thankful for the
many, many little things in each day. My heart is grateful.
I am content.
So, yes, be honest
about the ‘hard’ elements of parenting. It is not fun for every minute of the
day. That’s okay.
Enjoy the journey.
Enjoy the season you
are in.
Enjoy today.
Enjoy this moment.
Be content.
