Fingerprints on the Mirror

There was a day, not too long ago, these hand prints would have made me angry.   Anyone who knows me, knows "I love things clean!"  When things are dirty, or less than perfect, it tends to make my blood pressure rise.  However, after 10 years of being a parent, I am getting softer.  For some reason these fingerprints aren't bothering me today.  I can now find the humor in the fingerprints on the mirror.  How can I fail to see the humor in a cute little 3 year old boy, who replies to my question "Why did you do this?", by saying, "Ahhhh...  Because I'm sorry.  It's, it's just clean!"  In less than 9 years, my oldest will leave for college.  I will be left with memories of yesterdays.  I am making a vow to see the cuteness and humor in things like soapy hand prints on the mirror.  Starting today:  I am going to look for silly kid moments, and I am going to take a picture.  The old saying say's, "Take a picture, it last longer!"  Many years after my kids leave home, I will have these pictures.  Pictures to remind me of the greatest years of my life.  Years I will cherish, the short time frame in which my babies were small.    God is teaching me daily, that my kids are priceless, and a clean home is fleeting.   My prayer is that my oldest boy, will experience selective amnesia.  I want him to forget the times I lost my temper, over silly things.  I was a new mom, learning how to be a mom, and most importantly growing in God's wisdom.  I want him to only remember, the extent of my love.  I want him to know, I would give my own life for him in a heartbeat.  I want him to know that when he hurts, I hurt.  I am or never will be a perfect mother.  I can honestly say, I have never settled for my imperfection.  Each day I seek wisdom from God, friends, and family to ensure the next day of parenting is a bit more successful.  I continually ask God for guidance and realize the Word of God, is the answer to being a Godly and successful parent. 

Lord, Help me to see the cuteness and humor in the silly things.  Help me Lord to recognize the difference between childish silliness, and direct disobedience.  Lord give me wisdom.  Wisdom to discern when to laugh, and when to discipline disobedience.  Lord, help me remember these amazing years. And Lord, thank you for the gift of my children!!!