Self Control

Self Control

Ask any mother about raising children and she’ll say it’s one of the most exhausting and equally rewarding jobs on earth. But, it’s a 24/7 kind of job and as much as you love your kids, sometimes absence makes the heart grow fonder. Take these three poster children for Ritalin. This particular image captured at Cave of the Mounts, moments before our tour guide corrected the boys,”No, that is not hot lava, IT IS A red light.” Fear not, a volcano is not forming in this corner of southwest Wisconsin. (phew!)

Best of friends and worst of enemies, their ages span a mere 35 months. Demanding, loving, and constantly bruising, just when you think a moment of silence is upon you, fate would have otherwise. Healthy and perfect in every way, I’m thankful for the madness as much as the hour between their bedtime and mine.

Travis had been out of town six of the past ten business days and my empathy for single parents was at an all time high. Two kids were chasing the poor cat (why she just doesn’t hide all the time is beyond me) and one was prying AA batteries out of a toy with a fork. At the exact moment before my face turned maroon and my vocal chords braced for impact, Owen (always Owen) yelled, “SELF CONTROL!”

Three bodies too short for a roller coaster simultaneously fell into yoga position. Legs folded, arms dropped, and eyes closed. Their shoulders relaxed and all was eerily quiet on the eastern frontier. Apparently the latest tactic for maintaining order in the classroom is being in touch with your inner emotions. Finding your core and achieving a toddler zen. Albeit short lived, “self control” was the re-set we needed in the moment and it saved the moment from spiraling out of control.

So, I’m trying a little “self control” in my own life.

With that, I’ll end with three suggestions from my dad’s “Last Wishes” instructions (it’s in my mind; I came across the folder organizing estate stuff last night).

1. Try not to dwell on past regrets. It’s too time consuming-move on.
2. Try to enjoy the simple and uncomplicated gifts of the present-the song of a bird, a purring cat on your lap, or the beauty of a sunset.
3. Relish in the excitement and anticipation of what tomorrow bring…dream, but be patient also…

Thanks dad. Self control.

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Tagged as: Everyday Song, Last Wishes, Parenting