Rewards

This morning I am joyfully observing that my little boy is indeed maturing and that consistent (sometimes tiring) discipline does indeed pay off.

Over the last few weeks we have experienced the challenges that being 2 years old can bring. I purposely don't call them the "Terrible Twos" because I believe many parents use it as an excuse for their childrens' behavior. Truth be told, though, 2 has brought a new stage in our discipline and training. Steele is becoming more independent - as he should be - and with that independence his sinful nature (selfishness, stubbornness, obstinance) is rearing it's ugly head more and more.

Justin and I have decided that, in our home, we do not choose battles we cannot win. Because of this, our battles sometimes last a long time. Training and discipline sessions may go on more than an hour until we are triumphant. We wait and discipline until Steele's will is joyfully obedient toward us. In all honesty, it is in these moments that I sometimes wonder if I am doing things the right way, if my method will bring the desired outcome, if Steele will grow up to be a man that obeys God because he first obeyed his parents. I sometimes become tired, emotional and impatient as I recognize that I must set aside my own schedule and desires to set discipline as a priority.

And yet, with all of this, it is also a joy to watch Steele as he matures and begins to do more and more things on his own. So, back to the title of this post. A few of the "rewards" I have received this morning:

1. As I was typing Steele was kissing and hugging his baby sister while she was in her swing.

2. Steele sat down on his potty and wanted a light on and said to me, "Help please, mama."

3. When I asked him what he wanted for breakfast he said to me, "Oatmeal and raisins." (Which I think is just plain cute)

4. When I called Steele from another room he said, "Ok!" and then I heard his little feet running toward me.

5. Steele came into the living room with my necklace and I said to him, "That's mama's special necklace. Go put that back please." He again said, "Ok! Mama's special necklace," and ran it back into the kitchen and put it on the table.

6. As I was getting him into his seat for breakfast he repeated over and over, "unner, unner, unner". I told him I couldn't understand what he was saying and said to him, "Go show me." He went running into his room and came back with a pair of big boy underwear.

7. And finally, my favorite one of all. Every time I sneeze Steele says to me, "Bless you, mama."

I am blessed, son.




ps. I could not do this post justice if I did not include a very important link. The parenting resources found here have not only transformed our child training methods but have given us insight, resolve and confidence about who God is, who we are as husband and wife and who we are as parents. I will shamelessly say that it is the most biblically based resource we have found. It speaks absolute truth to parents. At times it may be seen as controversial and, as a sinful, prideful human being, it is sometimes difficult to read and take to heart. But we, as are many of our friends, are reaping the benefits of what we have learned (and are continuing to grow in). The result? A peaceful, joyful home with obedient, happy children. Well, at least until the next training session that is. ;-)

No Greater Joy