Gaining Much

Some evenings are a little more eventful than others. Last night was one of those. I had a million things cross my mind that I should be doing.

I needed to finish peeling apples to freeze. I needed to fold laundry. I had a stack of papers to grade. I had a pile of homework to do.

I did none of it.

Instead, I spent time drawing on the driveway making chalk figures with my boys. We cleaned an area around the tree where they like to play in the front yard. They had a bit of a water hose fight. And we even rode the four wheeler for a few minutes.

Through it all, though, the boys had some listening issues. Some days are like that ... no one wants to do what is requested of them on the first request.

I’ll admit that it is frustrating for a parent when doing all that one can, to have children who don’t realize the benefits and blessings so abundant to them. It becomes a task of mine to make sure they realize and are grateful, not just expectant of luxuries.

As I tucked them into bed that night, we prayed. Normally, I say the words. This night, I asked them to do it.

Creed started. He asked God to heal ailments on him and friends. He thanked God for people he loved. And then, the best part was that he asked God to help him be better. And when I told him he did a wonderful job, he looked at me and said, "I know I wasn’t very good today. I’m sorry. I’ll be better tomorrow."

I was almost at a lost for words. Maybe something is sinking in. Maybe my children are understanding what I try to teach them day after day. Either way, I felt blessed.

Heath also said his prayers that night. Just to know that at age four and six my boys understand they can have a conversation with God is very pleasing.

I finished that evening in what some would view as behind. My laundry, papers and homework still loomed. But, in reality, I had gained so much during the day.