Every year around the holidays I try to do something to focus on the REAL meaning of Christmas. Last year I read The Robe. If you haven't read it, I strongly suggest you do. It made all the difference for me last year. This year I have been reading the four gospels from the New Testament. I have tried to read with two things in mind. First, that this isn't just a nice story, but actual events. And second, what do I need to change in my own life because of Christ's teachings. That is where perspective comes in.
I know there are a lot of moms out there with more kids and more on their plates, so I shouldn't complain. But I do. Having two energetic children and a husband who is gone more nights than he is home is HARD. Some nights I go to bed so thankful that I can try again in the morning. Sometimes I am a little jealous that my husband gets to go out to nice lunches and have adult conversation, while I am home eating macaroni and cheese and explaining why we don't throw our food on the floor. It had been a rough couple of weeks when I read Mark 8:36-37 "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?"
That scripture really struck a chord in me. Perspective. The most important thing I can be doing is to be home with my children trying to set a righteous example for them. All the accolades of the world will mean nothing if I fail my children. I have been praying for strength beyond my own so that I don't enter "Mean Mom Mode." You know, that point where you can feel the veins in your neck bulge and you think you might actually turn green like the Hulk. I have felt love pour into my heart. I love my children. And more than anything I have been reminded that all they really want is for me to show them love.
This Christmas I am thankful for the life of Christ. He is the best gift. He is helping me turn my weaknesses into strengths. Because of the teachings of the Savior, I have the perspective to know that the most important thing is family. So in the words of Hannah, "Merry Pimpas!"
10 comments:
You are a superb woman, an exemplary mother, and a wonderful wife. Thank you for being such a good example to me and the kids. You deserve a very merry Pimpas, indeed!
I agree with Steve. You are awesome in every way and always my example. Love you!
Wonderful post. We all need things put into perspective sometimes...
You are amazing and I admire your strength and patience. You are a far better person/mother than you give yourself credit for...so give yourself a pat on the back because you are doing an AWESOME job.
Love you. MERRY PIMPAS!!
Just what I needed! Thanks for sharing Erin.
Beautiful post Erin. Merry Pimpas to you are your sweet family. :)
Erin, you are such a wonderful person. Thanks for sharing this. You are such a righteous example.
Thanks for your post. I completely know the "mean mom mode" and I too have prayed asking my Heavenly Father for strength, love, and help. I'm grateful that He hears our prayers and answers them. You are an amazing woman. Thank you for helping all of us get a little perspective.
Merry Pimpas!!
I am honored to call you one of my best friends. What a wonderful experience it was to read these books together. I'm getting emotional all over again! I love you, Erin. Thank you so much for your testimony.
Loved your post! Thanks for helping us all gain a little perspective! I hope your Christmas is wonderful!
Love this! Just what I needed to read right now. And I do hope you have "Merry Pimpas" indeed!
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