My Little Seeds

The other night I was at the end of my rope. Tired, overwhelmed, stressed. Then as I was making dinner, I dropped a jar of honey. I spilled Violet's food. I had schoolwork hanging over my head. And the family seemed unappreciative and unhelpful as I scrambled around to make and serve yet another meal. Sensing my mood, Luke suggested the kids all tell me something they appreciate about me at dinner. This was a mistake, and I could have told him so. After feeling worn thin for working so hard for these little people, I did not need to watch them rack their brains to think of SOMETHING they appreciate about all I do for them. Sure enough, they could not think of anything as they sat there in clean clothes with a plate of warm homemade food in front of them. Finally, Isaiah led the pack with the "compliment" of "I like that you make corn for us sometimes." (I had served corn on the cob for dinner). At that, the tears that were on the brink all evening started to tumble out, so I passed the baton to Luke and headed to Silver Grizzly to work on my school work a little earlier that planned.

When I got home, that kitchen was spotless and all the kids had made cards for me, including a few things they are thankful for about what I do for them. Lucy is a wise little soul. Although she seems silly and flighty sometime, she often surprises us with the depth of her insight. This was her card.

"We are only little seeds that are first sprouting." So true! They are young and tender and sometimes don't yet know how to appreciate their mother (or do many other things!). And they need watering and tending and care to help them continue to grow into the strong plants they are made to be. It really was the perfect card. I came home refreshed and renewed and ready to get back to my favorite duty of all - serving my family.