I guess my poor attitude on Sunday (thanks to PMS and holiday decorating stress) and my semi-poor, residual attitude on Monday (continued PMS and hello?!? Monday) did not sway my almost 8 year old son from giving me an A+ in parenting. With his parent/teacher conference this morning, I thought it would be a good idea last night to get brave and give him an opportunity to grade me as his mom. And much to my surprise, he didn't hesitate to answer back with an awesome, passing grade.
We spent some time talking about what things could be improved and what things were awesome, and it was such a nice chat to have together. He even gave Daddy an A+ too, which melted daddy's heart because he didn't know what I was even up to.
I guess this goes to show that 1) us parents can be way too hard on and unforgiving of ourselves, 2) apologies for bad attitudes are not only heard but accepted, 3) praying to the Lord for forgiveness in front of your kids help them understand you really do feel remorseful and 4) kids are more resilient than you think.
I was really beating myself up by Monday night, but a few apologies and extra attempts at affection later, our relationship has been mended and life moved on. Family moved on. I'd say I learned a few things, he learned a few things, and the love only grew.
Thank God for my family.
Those points you listed out are such music to my ears. I love that you ask the Lord for forgiveness in front of your kids when you feel you've wronged them. What an authentic experience for them to hold in their minds and hearts ... one I'd like to give my boys, too.
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