Sometimes at the end of the day, I find that my energy has been spent. This typically happens at the same time that my children need/want my attention. While I am a fairly laid back, encouraging of independence, “I don’t do crafts” type of mom, I do strive to recognize and meet their emotional needs.
Today, child #3 needed quality time. During this quality time, I discovered she also needed the encouragement to find a way to cope when her big sis was preoccupied with friends. Honestly, if I have to spend the summer hearing “I’m bored” then we may not all survive! I suggested she read and she immediately perked up and asked if we could go to the library. Friends, did I mention my energy was spent? I was TIRED! But my girl wanted a book, so we went.
I was impressed by how she asked the librarian where to locate her favorite series (I guess being too tired encouraging independence pays off), spent some time selecting just the right book, and eagerly helped me checkout. She excitedly chatted about her selection as we pulled out of the parking lot and I couldn’t help but smile and say, “I love reading.” My 8 year old daughter’s eyes met mine in the rearview mirror, and beaming she said, “same!” *cue mom tears*
Anyone who knows me, knows I am an avid reader (my pop socket says “Coffee, Books, and Oxford Commas). That small moment where my child acknowledged a mutual love of books may not have made me less tired, but it sure reminded me that I’m truly grateful for the honor of raising these people of mine! I realized that as much as I wanted to share my love of books, my daughter wanted to be like her momma. We hold so much power as parents–the power of influence. Days like today, when I feel like there is so much in life that I want to make better but have zero control over, it’s awesome to have one of those moments where you realize that raising children can have a profound impact on the world.
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