Words of Encouragement

I made it to morning mass with my boys today. Now that Dawson is walking it's even more interesting than before.

They set out chairs in the vestibule and open the doors to the day chapel. I am convinced that they set those chairs up with us in mind.

The boys were being, well, boys. Aiden had gas that was so loud I'm quite certain everyone heard it. Every time he let one go he laughed and said, "Scuze me. Aiden has gas!" The two of them banged their heads on the glass doors and noted how funny their voices sounded when they pressed their faces on the glass.

I tried to pray. I tried to enter in. I tried to remind myself that I come to receive Jesus and the grace He has for me. I come so that my children have a personal experience of the faith early on. Some days are better than others.

After mass, an experienced mom of six came up to me and said, "You're doing a good job with them. I remember when my boys were this age. They were 15 months apart too. You're in the hardest time of your life. Keep up the good work. It does get easier."

I thanked her for the encouragement but what I really wanted to do was to throw my arms around her and give her a kiss. Those simple words meant so much to me. They gave me encouragement for today and hope for the future. I know the two sons she spoke of and they are both strong men of God.

I hope that I remember how this feels one day long from now when my children are all grown (that will happen one day won't it?). I hope that I will say the same thing to another young mother whose children are being children at the feet of Jesus.