What Mom and Dad Taught Me

Today I am reminded of the gigantic blessing I have in my parents. Since Dad and I were the only ones who didn't have to go to school or work, we went and ran errands and hung out together. It's always a blessing to hangout with my dad because we have great conversations. Today was about war and a Christian's perspective on the war on Iraq. I learn a lot from talking to my dad. He is really wise and I love learning things I didn't or being challenged by his thinking. One thing my dad and I talked about today was how he raised me. I was reminded of how much of who I am is a product of them being loving enough not to give me everything I ever wanted, for being strict at times, for always loving, quick to forgive, patient, and above all seekers of the Lord. I truly believe a big part of me has come about because of my parent's trust and devotion to Jesus and by God's grace. Dad's helped me learn important things regarding financial decisions, investments, making important decisions, keeping life simple (like Dad always says, "I'm praying for good things"). It's so generic and simple but so encouraging cause he says it with a big cheesy smile.

Mom has taught me a lot too. She continually tells me, "Trust God" and reminds me of her dedication in prayer over my life. Tonight I remembered one of the most valuable lessons I learned from my mother: laughter. After watching the awesome last Rocky movie together, my mom, being mom, jumps up and starts pretending to be Rocky, jabbing in the air and picking fights with everyone in the room. The night ended in Stephen, Joel, Mom and I in a dog pile on the living room floor. Mom has to stop every now and then because she's laughing so hard she almost pees her pants! It was so fun. Mom has always been really silly and goofy. I cannot begin to count the times that I spent bursting in laughter with my mother over something she said and seeing her laugh like crazy. Late nights in the kitchen, with our family, or even in public somewhere like a restaurant. My mom has no shame in laughing and living life fully with joy. She has taught me to laugh and live life joyfully. She has taught me a lot through her life, like modesty, Godly parenting, submissiveness to husband and the Lord, and intentionality in ministry. I am grateful for her and Dad. They have not done everything perfectly and neither have I as their daughter, but I am tremendously blessed by them and want to honor and respect them.