Or is it a title that should be earned?
Sure, we should probably call those people by those titles out of respect, but should we automatically feel that "special" way about them just because of our birth order?
I don't think so. I want my kids to know that I worked hard (and will continue to) to earn my standing as their Mom. I want them to know that I don't take that responsibility or title lightly. I want them to understand that I willingly sacrificed, I prayed for wisdom, I did research and professional development.
I also hope that they know that I don't take being a Mom and Dad team lightly. I hope that they are able to see the work that Lincoln and I have put into our marriage. I hope they understand that it's not an easy thing - marriage...but it's worth the fight, sacrifice, and daily work. We do it because God has asked this of us - but also because THEY are worth it. Our family unit is worth it.
I read this somewhere and I think it's very fitting to this post:
"... My name means - I will never leave you, I am in your corner, I am your safe place, I will guide you all the days of your life, I will never give up on you, I will treasure who you are, I will be there when you fall and help you get up, I will help you learn from your mistakes, I will not judge you, I will teach you about the one and only GOD ..."
What do you readers think? Do you think a certain feeling and respect should be given to those people in your life even if they do nothing to deserve or earn the title?
4 comments:
It is only by grace that we received the title "child of God"...we do not earn it.
In the same way, I think the titles you mention can't really be earned. Life is usually a trial and error thing, and I might think that I'm working harder to earn my title as a mom than you, but how am I to know your heart and know how you're trying as a mom?
I don't know, Ashley. I've never thought of these "titles" as having to be earned. Sure, I have a certain family member in my life that makes life difficult for me, but I still call her my [insert title here].
I think titles are automatic. I don't want my child to call his grandparents by their first name, even if for some reason they becomee estranged from us or bad people or something.
Conversely, my child will call some other people by titles, even though they aren't related. He will have an Auntie Amy and an Aunt Ann for sure, because they are my best friends.
Growing up, I had an Uncle Jody who was my dad's good friend, and I never questioned why we called him that. We just knew it seemed right.
Oh Ashley so glad you are back! I have so missed your blog.
I agree I think those people should have to earn that title. Although I am not sure I am brave enough to tell my MIL this but maybe some day. Just because you see my kids four times a year does not get you the grandma title. UGH That is an entire different post in itself.
Love the quote you posted!
Well my mom will always be mom, dad will always be dad and so on... however - my sister calls dad, Curt, by his name, it breaks my heart... So I guess she feels differently than I do on this topic!
I carried my girls for 9 months - they better call me mommy! And I hope with all my heart that our girls always call Corey daddy! But like you said we work very hard to be the best that we can and do our jobs right!
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