1.30.2009

Family Gem

Parents Should Make Sure Their Children Know of Their Love

“To you who are parents, I say, show love to your children. You know you love them, but make certain they know it as well. They are so precious. Let them know. Call upon our Heavenly Father for help as you care for their needs each day and as you deal with the challenges which inevitably come with parenthood. You need more than your own wisdom in rearing them.”

Thomas S. Monson, “Abundantly Blessed,” Ensign, May 2008, 112

I remember one of my visiting teachers advising me to pray each day to have the Spirit with me as I went through my day with Jakob. I was telling her how sometimes I would just get so frustrated and mad, and that wasn't the kind of mother I wanted to be. The thought of praying for help from the Lord to deal with those every day frustrations had never occured to me. When I put it into action, it worked. I was able to stay calm and be more patient with my sweet little boy.

So, today when things started getting crazy because Jakob wasn't listening to us to get his shoes on so he wouldn't be late for school, I started feeling anxious about how he would behave at school if this was how his day was starting at home. Then I got home from dropping him off and read this message and realized that even for something that small, if we pray for help in raising our kids and ask for guidance, we will get it.

Jakob had a rough week at school last week, getting into trouble repeatedly with the lunch lady, and in his classroom. So, he's had to deal with some hard consequences this week, like sitting in the office instead of going out to recess, and losing a fun new toy he got from a birthday party...and all of his bakugans. I know that part of the reason he has been doing better this week is because it has been "Turn Off The Tube Week" -- so we haven't had the TV on...until yesterday I caved and let them watch it. Then again they watched it this morning...which I am 100% sure is the reason why he wasn't listening to us about getting his shoes on. So, a new rule in our house is that there will be no TV on before school. I believe this will help him remain focused on getting ready for school, and hopefully keep his mind fresh and ready to learn at school.

Being a parent is an on-going learning process (DUH!) and sometimes I feel sorry for Jakob because he is our guinea pig as we stumble and make mistakes along the road of parenthood. But, if we "show love to [our] children" and continually ask for help and guidance from the Lord, it will be easier and more fulfilling.

So, if you're the type of parent who shows love physically with lots of hugs and kisses, but it's hard for you to express yourself in words, try to use words more often in conjunction with the cuddles and hugs. If you're not the touchy feely type, try to be more physical with your child...don't be afraid to show them you love them...you can never love your child too much!!!!!!! So go ahead and spoil them with affection and words of praise!!!!!! They need it in order to have a strong foundation at home so they can conquer all the trials they will face in their lives.

I am thankful to my parents for always loving me and making sure I knew they loved me. Even when I was on my mom's last nerve, I knew she still loved me, no matter what. Every child deserves to be loved!


9 comments:

Jillyboo said...

Thanks Shari, this is beautiful. And just the reminder i know i need.
you are a wonderful mother for those sweet biys, they are lucky to have you.

Sonya said...

Hi Shari - I love reading your blog! I need to write more in mine, but I have to get this test overwith first! I agree with you about the TV, it's just as distracting for adults as it is for kids...it's good to have it off as much as possible!
Love,
Sonya

Tiffany J said...

Shari you and Brad are great parents and I know your boys know you both love them! I'm so glad you decided to share that quote. It's always nice to know that even in our darkest days as parents, someone knows our struggles and can teach us the way. Heavenly Father is truly amazing!

Our family said...

Very great thoughts. Thanks for the reminders. I know that I need to recommit myself to do doing better!

Deb said...

It'no wonder Heavenly Father blessed you with 3 little boys...He knew you could handle it. Very inspiring, because soon I will be out numbered with two boys. So true that every child needs to feel loved! We all do really. Thanks for sharing I can't wait to give my little guy hugs and kisses when he wakes up from his nap!

Tiffany J said...

Hey it wouldn't matter how many kids you had or I had, we'd love to swap babysitting! Don't hesitate if you need it....honest! I'm doing much much better!

Jessie said...

Thanks for this post Shari. It was very well put and I needed to hear it. I'm lucky to have great cousins like you :)

Bridget said...

Thanks for connecting with me on Facebook...I've wondered about Brad as more and more Slovene friends have joined it. Very cool that you're out numbered by boys in your house. That was me for many years. Now we have little Jocelyn who is 4 months old.

Tyler and Karen Davis said...

Shari- YOU ARE A GEM! Thank you for this blog, I will be a better Mom for it!