For several years I had the privilege of working with Gina McClain at LifeChurch.tv, and it was an absolute blast! She is now the Children’s Ministry Director for Faith Promise Church in Tennessee. Gina is a strong leader, amazing mom, coffee freak, loves her husband, OSU Cowboys fan (for some reason)…she is truly a great friend and I am a better person, leader, pastor and dad because of the time I was able to spend with her.
Gina is our guest writer for EpicParent today. Great article from a seasoned mom!
Thank you Gina!
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It’s a brand new year. And admittedly I approach this year more soberly than the past. Every year I’m a little less surprised that last year went by so quickly. They always do.
Every year I take some time to set professional and personal goals. This year is a little different. Rather than setting goals, I decided to set some “permissions” instead. You see, during this season in my family, I have the greatest influence in the lives of my kids. And I refuse to allow the erosion of my influence simply because I failed to give myself permission. So here you go… a list of the 4 things I give myself permission to do in 2011.
1. Laugh at myself more. Taking myself too seriously makes for a cranky mom. I’m giving myself margin to step back and have a good chuckle over the ridiculous things that I do
2. Just say ‘No’… to laundry and ‘Yes’ to chess. My 11 year old will whip out a game when he really wants one-on-one time. I give myself the freedom to grab it while I can
3. Coach more. Rant less. My kids stop listening when I get on my soap box. But their ears are perked when I encourage and build up. Setting myself up for a rich coaching moment is so rewarding. I want more of those.
4. Spend more time figuring out what my kids are telling me. Less time figuring out what I want to tell them. I have more success connecting with them spiritually when I listen to where God has them today.
Mom! It’s easy to get entangled by the mistakes we’ve made on the parenting journey. In fact, we tend to view ourselves through the lens of our parenting mishaps. But if scripture is true and God’s mercies are new every morning, then we must be willing to walk in that truth. Even after our worst “Mommy Dearest” moment, I give you permission to drop the wire hanger and embrace the truth of grace. You can’t extend grace to your child beyond the grace you are willing to extend yourself. So go ahead… give yourself grace… and give yourself permission.
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Great insight!