Having Been Raised

Her mom struggled with perfectionism.

She was isolated and insecure but determined to do her best.

His momma consistently watched over him with the utmost care and concern.

She was clumsily processing terrible grief.

Her mom was grateful and energized and close to the Lord.

She had so much help and support.

Her momma battled depression and didn't know how to ask for help.

She had a breakdown and had to work the steps of recovery.

His mother was brave as she battled the overwhelm.

She was creative, industrious, and somewhat distracted, but generally active and fun.

Her mom was patient and impatient in equal measure.

She was there for her.

His momma seemed far away even when she sat nearby.

Her mother hurt her feelings.

His mom helped him believe he could do anything he set his mind to.

All these varied maternal experiences … the good, the bad, the cute and the ugly … in each of these circumstances … that mother was me.

I have so much compassion for her.

Flawed, fearful, intermittently fun.

Never fully knowing how to assess her best efforts, never fully capable of letting things go.

Faithful nonetheless.

By God's mercy, she has never given up.

In reality, I have been growing up with these children of mine the whole time. The way I am growing up alongside my own mom.

Spanning the seasons, weathering the wounds and wonder of it all, we blossom and fall away in divine development … discovering and embodying more and more of who we are each meant to be.

It is humbling to need and offer forgiveness with such relentless frequency.

It is fortifying as well.

Transformational.

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:1-2