More about Posterity

We had a family photo taken yesterday evening! This was truly a step forward for us because we haven't had an official photo(as in a studio sitting) since the 9 yr. old was 2. I have to say I can't wait to get my pictures and give them to our family and good friends. I've looked at the proof they give you with a pick up date I don't know how many times. I look at it and think, "That's my family." I can't express the feelings that well up within me as I think of my posterity. I've thought of the children being 17, 15, 13, 11, 9..... About them calling me Momma, Mommy, Mom.. Of them running up and down the stairs as the years come and go. About them filling up my house and loving their home. God has been so gracious to give us an appreciation and understanding for what a family is to represent. He has been so kind to bring many joys along with strength in the effort of raising the children.

A few days ago, as I was listening to my girls play in their bedroom while I checked emails, I noticed the rough tone the very soon to be 5yr. old used as she played Mommy.
She was definitely being a mean Mommy. The thought that went through my mind was,
"Am I mean spirited when I correct her? Has she learned roughness from me?"
I must admit that I can be hard in correction and there have been many a days when I have apologized to the children for not being patient or kind.
I want them to be gentle in their spirit.

Parenting really isn't for cowards though, because there have been days when I would have rather let them get by with things, but deep inside I know they need discipline, guidance, training, love, time, companionship, forgiveness, mercy, grace..... All these things from a couple who didn't get an instruction manual except the Bible and had no idea what God has had in store for them. But God has seen fit to place them in our care and for that I am so humbled and thankful.

Looking at the proof once again brings a huge smile to my face, perhaps because it is mixed with all kinds of other emotions. But I wouldn't take any of them back for all the time in the world.