A Work in Progress

       This beautiful reflection was written by Jess, two weeks before baby Calvin was born.

“It’s almost time for baby #4 to be here. We are so excited to meet him! But I struggle with the fact that everything isn’t and won’t be ready for him at home. I’m realizing that I humbly and graciously have to accept that I am and will always be a work in progress as a mom. Just like his tiny little nursery (which is a bassinet in our closet). I have to fight the thoughts that “this isn’t enough for him” and “what will people think”, etc… But I am reminded of the perfect Christ child that was born in a manger who didn’t need anything except his mother and father’s love and care. I pray that I can remember this each day as I care for my children and do my best to love them as Christ loves me.”

Three months have flown by since then and Jess, her husband  and their four children (all 4 years old and under) are thriving. There is so much joy and laughter in their home (interspersed with tears and challenges) that it is obvious to anyone who comes by for a visit that this “work in progress” is a home that is full of LOVE.

The original plan for the “bassinet in the closet” nursery has been modified and the bassinet has been moved downstairs with the goal of providing a safe place for Calvin to be able to enjoy the hustle bustle of his three siblings. His bouncy seat has been placed on top of the train table for a safe and secure option #2.

Most of the time, our best efforts to organize our lives, especially as  busy moms, have to be held loosely knowing that flexibility is our friend. When we are in survival mode the framework of our plan must be stable with all acceptable options for carrying out the plan available to be used at a moment’s notice. What I often tell Jess as a reminder is that if she makes it through the day and the kids are safe and fed and relatively clean, it is a really great day. The love and security they feel because of the time and energy put into each day is way more important than everything being organized and perfectly in order.

Kids spell “love”…….”TIME” so as Christ loves us so may we strive to love our children by spending quality time with them. With Mother’s Day coming up let’s celebrate the little things that moms do to show love to their children. Each one of us is a “work in progress”.

When have you been tempted to put your plan and desire to be organized and “on top of things” above love, patience, kindness, flexibility and TIME?