Let me just say that I LOVE my daughter…with all of my heart. The past couple of days have been so trying with her though. She is quickly approaching the 18 month mark and already we are dealing with extreme boundary testing…she doesn't have to wait for two…she is already there.
I almost had a breakdown myself this morning after the 4th time-out for the same reason, all within 10 minutes time. I couldn't help feeling like a failure as a parent. I know what the "professionals" say about disciplining your child, how to cope with tantrums, etc., but when you are doing those things and your precious and obedient daughter has seemingly transformed into one that thrives on trouble, its incredibly discouraging.
Luckily, after praying, I did what every parent in this situation does…
poured myself a shot of whiskey called my older sister for guidance. Thankfully, she picked up the call, and gave me encouragement, reminding me to hold firm to the boundaries we've established and continue to reinforce them. She reminded me to stay stoic during discipline because any kind of emotional reaction on my part will reinforce the behavior, and lastly, she reminded me that
this too shall pass.
I took a deep breath and decided she was right. Then I put Zion down for her nap, began my daily reading of blogs I follow and came across
this post here, which led me to read
this blog. Immediate perspective gained. As I sat, crying my eyes out, I realized how small these troubles of mine actually are. I realized that tantrums or not, I am blessed to have this day with my daughter.
God is so faithful to show up and remind me, during the difficulties of every day life, that things could be worse and my focus should always be on the blessing each day brings, with very little time focused on the momentary troubles.
Linking up here today:
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