When children are young, they look to their parents as super heroes – men and women of steel – those who can make all their boo-boos better and dry their tears when they are hurting.  When they get older, the mask and cape quickly disappear and it soon becomes apparent that parents aren’t much different than anyone else.  They have problems – they can’t do everything – they make mistakes.

When they become teens, suddenly those original super heroes have now been relegated to not having a clue or absolutely ignorant.  It isn’t until they begin their own families or life on their own that parents once again get the honor they’re deserve.

Parenting is probably one of the most difficult occupations out there.  Most of us do it on a learn as you go plan.  No one tells you that your life is going to change completely.  No one tells you that your kids will get broken bones, hurt feelings and need protection from dangerous situations. I didn’t expect numerous trips to the ER. I wasn’t prepared for snakes, bugs, baby ducks, frogs and many other critters.

Parenting is tough. You feel guilty going to bed with a sink full of dishes. You have so much to do, but your child wants a bedtime story. You’d really love a new pair of shoes, but school starts soon and the kids need school supplies. You put your plans on hold so you can visit your child’s school and share hot lunch with them or be their ‘show and tell item for the day. You cry when you’re not there to say goodnight and tuck them in for the night.

Martina McBride wrote a lovely song about this very subject. One verse kind of sums up what the whole parenting thing is all about.

“In my daughter’s eyes,
Everyone is equal,
Darkness turns to light,
And the world is at peace,
This miracle God gave to me,
Gives me strength when I am weak,
I find reason to believe,
In my daughter’s eyes.”

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!