I confess that all too often our bedtime ritual is rushed. My prayers can sometimes be quick and rote as I rush to get everyone settled so I can take a break. But tonight, I felt led to pray 3-4 specific sentences about qualities I see developing in each of their lives.
My time with K was so tender, I just had to write it down lest I forget.
I have really enjoyed watching her blossom lately. She challenges me with her kindness, compassion, responsibility, etc... so tonight I mentioned each of these characteristics specifically as I prayed. When I finished she squeezed my neck tightly and mumbled something.
"What was that?" I asked.
"Nothing," she giggled sheepishly.
"Tell me, sweetie. I want to hear what you have to say."
"I said, 'That made my day, Mommy.'"
And with that, my heart was reminded of the powerful way our words fill (or deplete) these little hearts. I pray God will help me remember to slow down and tend these little souls--even when I am tired. There is too much at stake not to. And the reward of those little affirmations in return? Well, that made my day!
4 comments:
Such a needed reminder!
That is sweet! It's been a rough few days with my 3 year old. That gives me some perspective.
Recently one night at bedtime, I started asking my daughter some questions about school. I was just making conversation. I was shocked about some things she started sharing with me :( Her precious heart had been hurt by a dear friend and she hadn't said anything. I suspect she was covering for her friend (they are 8)and didn't want anyone to know. I was struck as a mother that my dear girl had been hurting and I was clueless. I knew that we had skipped several nights of bedtime prayer and this made it even clearer to me another reason why bedtime prayer is so important between mothers and children. We said a prayer, I gave her some of my Mommy thoughts, and after about 5 minutes...she quietly said, Mommy, thank you. It makes it better when we talk.
I share this because, as you wrote above, it is so important the words we speak into their lives. I try to filter my words when correcting so as not to scar or wound. I need to remember to speak as many good attributes into her life too. We are very affectionate and Love affirming in her home. But I need to be more intentional about the life-giving words I say too!
Kristi- I agree. It has really come to be our secret sharing time. I, too, am amazed at the things they (boys and girl) wait until the quiet, reflective time before bed to share!
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