We’ve had some cool mornings here lately. It’s still August, but I can feel autumn in the air. Since the first day of fall in the Northern Hemisphere is on September 22nd it’s a little early on the calendar for fall breezes, but I can tell autumn is on its way. I’ve enjoyed summer, but I’m also looking forward to the fall.
Our lives as parents also come in seasons as our children grow and as events occur in our families. Sometimes those seasons are fun and exciting like a summer vacation. You know which parenting seasons seasons I’m referring to – that first tooth, that first step, the first day of school. Sometimes the seasons are hard and difficult, like a winter blizzard. You know about these seasons if you’ve dealt with a rebellious child or one who is chronically ill.
I’m sure we’ll have more summery days before fall is officially here. In my region we often have a period called Indian Summer, which is a warm period that occurs after fall has arrived and the days have cooled down. After dealing with chilly nights I always enjoy the Indian Summer and the heat of the sun that it brings just a bit before the winter sets in. There are those, however; who are ready for winter and don’t feel the same about the short switch to warmer weather.
In our parenting journey we sometimes have to deal with times when the seasons are a bit like Indian Summer. You may be going through a tough time and get a short break. Or vice versa, things may be sailing along and then you hit a rough patch. In both cases we need to remember that life brings seasons, but the success of a life or a relationship isn’t determined by one season.
If you’re in a hard season right now, I hope that you will remember that you are not alone. And if you feel like you’re alone, I hope you will reach out to someone who can encourage you. No parent is immune to difficult times, no matter how charmed his or her life appears to be. You might even be surprised to find out how many other parents have been through the same situation you are going through.
Be sure to pray when you’re going through these times. Even if you don’t know what to say, the Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit will intercede on our behalf. I’m so glad of that because God knows what’s best and he can see the whole picture of our lives. I’ll be glad to pray for you, too; just leave me a comment.
From my parent’s heart to yours,
Joy
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Joy Goodman is a mom whose mission is to encourage parents and to celebrate joys of being a parent.
