I do my best to prepare for Sunday on Saturday by getting the kids bathed and setting out their clothes, but I still allow my frustrations get the best of me when Sunday morning rolls around, which ruins the spirit of our home and the importance for the day. Not to mention, it makes the adversary smile to see our family so out of harmony as we prepare for church.
Yesterday I decided that I was not going to get frustrated this morning as we got ready for church, no matter what happened, I was not going to raise my voice.
The morning went well, we got off to a late start but I was not going to allow that to get me worked up. If we were late, at least we'd still have the spirit with us. I usually get the kids fed and dressed before I get ready, that way I know they are ready to go when I'm done because if I don't, then we are all getting ready at the same time and it usually means someone gets distracted or all of them get distracted. There were a few moments when someone couldn't find a shoe or button a shirt and the child got frustrated but I calmly took care of these things and made sure the child knew that it was fine. This morning we all were fed, dressed, happy and we left well before we normally do.
The drive there was peaceful. I chose to listen to Mercy River (I own all four of their albums, really uplifting and inspiring music; especially for women and mothers) which really set the tone and kept the Spirit present. I noticed the children were listening, there was no fighting or bickering. Trenton even asked if we were listening to songs about Jesus.
We sat in an actual pew, usually my husband has us sit in the very back row of chairs so as not to disturb the meeting since we have four littles. But I enjoy sitting in a pew so much more. Before Sacrament meeting started, one of the Primary leaders asked me to sub in the CTR 8 class (I think it was that one) and of course I said yes. I was excited because my boys are in Primary and I love being with them even if it's not in their class, I get to see them during sharing time.
The speakers were great; a youth speaker, a convert, and a returned sister missionary.
My lesson for the kids was on Joseph forgiving his brothers for selling him as a slave. It was a great lesson and the children knew all the details of the story. I was very impressed with how much of the scriptures they knew and for be so well behaved.
I feel Primary gets a bad wrap at times, I think some people cross their fingers and hope they can avoid a calling in Primary at all costs. I used to be one of those, but that changed once I had children of my own. Maybe we forget what it's like to be children and how fun and carefree it was, and mistake it for being too loud and rambunctious.
When I'm in Primary, I am reminded of the simple things of the Gospel, yet at the same time the most important ones as well; pray, read my scriptures, love, choose the right, and serve. I see children in Primary and how they are sponges, taking it all in and knowing the Savior is real. The faith they have is so strong, they are not afraid to talk about their Savior and tell others about Him and how much He loves them. I want to be like these children, my children.
Speaking of my children, my boys sat so reverently during sharing time. I was so proud of them.
The spirit was so strong with me today. I wept a little throughout the day, not because I was sad, but because I felt the spirit and I know my children did too.
I hope every Sunday is like this. I know that I as the mother set the tone of what the day will be like, the day will only go well if I am in a good mood and have a welcoming spirit.
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| I've always loved this picture of the Savior blessing the Nephite children. Look at the joy on that little girl's face, the excitement in her eyes. |
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