Speaking Love
Matt, my younger son, is out of town this week on a mission trip to Mexico. I talked to him on the phone this evening and he told me about finishing their project which was to build a new home for a needy family. They dedicated the home this afternoon. I am proud of Matt–the way he is growing up, the good decisions he makes, the desire to give up his spring break to build a home for a needy family. As we finished our conversation he said, “I love you and mom.” How many dads have their 18-old-son verbalize their love? Hey, that’s a great thing. It is a gift that is treasured.
Not long after I talked to Matt, my older son, Aaron, sat down in the easy chair in my office here at the house to talk about his day and tell me about some exciting things that are happening in his life. It is so good to hear him share about hope and possibility. For the most part, Aaron talked and I listened. I am proud of him for some good decisions he has made in recent days, and there is further joy in having a son who wants to share his life with his father. After Aaron talked a while, there was a comfortable silence between us. Then he said, “Dad, I need to tell you this.” My first thought, was “Oh no, the shoe is about to drop.” Instead, he said, “You and mom have done a great job raising me. I know I’ve caused a lot of trouble, but I want you to know I’m aware of what a good job you’ve done. I’m glad you all adopted me.”
Wow. Two wonderful gifts in one evening from my children. If nothing else, I’ve taught my kids to verbalize their love and appreciation. Perhaps they do it better than I do, for too often I say nothing when I should be telling them of my love or telling them how proud I am of them. Parenting is about the hardest thing in the world to do, but it does have its rewards. Tomorrow, both my kids may be angry at me and hate me for consequences I have to apply, but today they love. To hear of love and to tell of love produces powerful bonds that can and will survive the tensions that sometimes exist between parent and child. I love my children and am thankful for them.
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Joey -
I sit here with tears in my eyes… both for the wonderful blessing you received from the boys today… and a hope to one day hear those words myself as well. Parenting a child with emotional difficulties IS hard… and it takes more emotional energy than most people can understand. Your words give me hope and encouragement… and for opening up these parts of your life, I am truly thankful. I am so proud and honored to be able to learn from those that have walked this path before me… to learn from you. You are right - there is not always much support out there for the parents. Thank you for the support that you offer by sharing your experiences!
God Bless…
Jennifer
Jennifer, thanks for sharing your own heart and hopes. I’m learning how important it is to share the journey, not only for my sake, but for others like you. In the midst of my own parental failures I’m encouraged by others who have walked before me and found success along the way.