I'm reading a book called A Love That Multiples by Michelle & Jim Bob Duggar. They have 19 well-behaved, Christ-like children, so I thought why not pick up their book. They have a TV show and we have watched a few seasons within the past few months. I really didn't have any interest in the show until recently. Once I watched one show, I thought, how do they do it with so many children? What is their secret? I have read several parenting books and love learning about how people parent. Even though we only have one child, I felt like they would have some great parenting advice since they are very experienced. Which by the way, really is a good book. After I finish this one I will probably buy their first book. I really like how they rear their children.
In the book, Michelle shares a poem called Love. This poem hit home with me and made me want to frame it. I knock myself out trying to have everything in "order" and "clean" and still have time to have fun with my son. I'm not a super mom and so it was refreshing to read this and realize I'm not alone, even though I only have one child - which believe me, one child keeps me plenty busy. This poem reminded me of what is most important, which is of course love.
Love
If I live in a house of spotless beauty with everything in its place, but have not love--I am a housekeeper, not a homemaker.
If I have time for waxing, polishing, and decorative achievements, but have not love--my children learn of cleanliness, not godliness.
Love leaves the dust in search of a child's laugh.
Love smiles at the tiny fingerprints on a newly cleaned window.
Love wipes away the tears before it picks up the toys.
Love is present through trials.
Love reprimands, reproves, and is responsive.
As a mother there is much I must teach my child,
but the greatest of all is...LOVE.