It was the best insult I received...so far. While our children were growing up, I was questioned, criticized, discussed and degraded. Oh, I survived. Yet I smiled inwardly when someone told me I was "overly protective."
Our children fell off their bikes, skinned their knees, felt bee stings, caught colds and...oh my...as children of a minister and a teacher/counselor...they didn't always make straight "A"s! (Silent gasp!) They also survived! They felt heartache, loss, pain and disappointment many times. While "overly protected," they somehow managed to experience life's blessings and burdens.
One thing is for certain. They always knew they were loved. They didn't always understand our plans, boundaries, thoughts or decisions. They certainly didn't always agree with us. Yet there was no doubt that we loved them. Part of loving them meant protecting them. Part of loving them also means allowing them to learn independence and life lessons. Yet they know that our love for them is genuine...unconditional...and present.
Many times I have endured falls, wounds, stings, illness...and imperfect assessments. Heartache, loss, pain and disappointment are no strangers, either. Life has certainly held countless blessings and unexpected burdens along the way.
One thing is for certain. God still loves me...genuinely, protectively, unconditionally. No matter what happens within me or around me, I know He is with me...holding me...protecting me...and loving me. I will never be a perfect parent. But if my life somehow teaches our children that they are never alone, always loved and in the precious hands of God, I will be grateful. Thank You, God, for Your continued love, patience, Presence and protection.♥~thl
"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23: 4
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