Sunday, October 16, 2011

Mommy Musings: What will you choose?

I have made a discovery since becoming a mother: I have a very short fuse. I tend to get irritated/frustrated/angry quite easily the majority of the time, especially when dealing with my family, and often it's the little things that will set me off. I know that most mothers probably struggle with patience, but some days it seems like my patience got lost in the mail somewhere along the way over the past 6 years. I'm working on not comparing myself with other mothers, especially since hearing President Uchtdorf say that "God is fully aware that you and I are not perfect...God is also fully aware that the people you think are perfect are not." I realize we all have flaws, and there is no perfect mother out there. I'm also trying to work on something that my husband keeps trying to remind me of. The way that I deal with stressful situations, whether it be parenting, a church calling, housecleaning, etc., is my choice. For example: recently we've been having some behavior issues with Will. Each time he acts out or does something wrong, I have a choice. I can either get angry, wonder "Why me?", and make it an even worse situation. Or I can try to calmly deal with the problem, treat Will with love and kindness, and keep the spirit of contention out of our home. On the wall of our bedroom I put up a question for myself. It says "What mood will you choose to be in today?" Admittedly I look at that question very infrequently these days, but when I do look at it I am reminded that I am the one who chooses how I'm going to go about my day and deal with whatever life throws at me.

2 comments:

phyllis bestor said...

Such a good thought. . .we have a choice and can choose not to be a victim of whatever circumstance at the moment. It is impressive that you are aware of what you need to do. . that is always the first step. Hang in there, Kristin. You are doing great! If we were meant to be perfect, what would be the point of even being here. Love you

Jesika Harmon said...

LOVE that post :) SO TRUE!! I think EVERY mother has a short fuse because children and so fun :) and difficult! You're awesome!