When I had Amanda almost 4 1/2 years ago, the pastor and his wife that married us came to visit us in the hospital. They brought presents for our new baby and his wife brought me a devotional for moms. (I love to read devotionals!) My hubby found this devotional today and I found the little note his wife had written me. I was reading through it and came across this list and it was a great reminder for me as a mom. Lately, I have been thinking about the set of expectations I have for Amanda and sometimes I need to just remind myself that she is just a CHILD! I think I will post this one on my fridge since I can't seem to stay out of it! Enjoy!
Commandments for Parents written from a child's point of view:
1) My hands are small; please don't expect perfection whenever I make a bed, draw a picture, or throw a ball. My legs are short; slow down so I can keep up with you.
2) My eyes have not seen the world as yours have; let me explore it safely; don't restrict me unnecessarily.
3) Housework will always be there; I'm only little for a short time. Take time to explain things to me about this wonderful world and do so willingly.
4) My feelings are tender; don't nag me all day long (you would not want to be nagged for inquisitiveness). Treat me the way you would want to be treated.
5) I am a special gift from God; treasure me as God intended you to do-holding me accountable for my actions, giving me guidelines to live by, and disciplining me in a loving manner.
6)I need your encouragement ( but not your empty praise) to grow. Go easy on criticism; remember, you can criticize the things I do without criticizing me.
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
Ephesians 4:29
