Fruitful Thursday : Gentleness

I'm happy to report that I have done well in my quest to become more gentle. I'm very much far from perfect, but more and more my response to the children's questions/pleas/temper tantrums is quieter, kinder - gentler. That makes me happy. It makes them feel more valued. And it is what God wants of me. Hallelujah.

Questing to be gentle appealed to me because I thought it would make me a better mom, and on some levels it has. But what has encouraged me the most is the way the kids have responded-each of them differently in different moments. Sometimes, they are more gentle themselves. Other times they would mistake the gentleness for weakness and attempt to take advantage of the situation. And overall they are more appreciative.

It's amazing and beautiful. When I am able to give of myself in a gentle way, rather than a place of pessimism or annoyance then the hugs, thank yous and smiles flow more freely.

Wait a moment and I'll get you more milk instead of I was just up, why did you wait to ask for milk when I sat down?

Please listen to me, Mommy said no instead of No! I said no!

The trash needs to be emptied, please instead of The trash is overflowing, why didn't you take it out earlier?

Little things really do make the difference. A kind smile, a soft answer or a hug.