Role of Love in Mothering~

I must admit that I am "stealing" this from a friend of mine (Thanks Pam). She posted it on her website and it stepped on my toes just a little bit. I felt like it was worth sharing. Enjoy~

"As I've thought about the role of love in mothering, I've been stimulated by 1 Corinthians 13, which I have paraphrased:


If I keep my house immaculatley clean, and am envied by all for my interior decorating but do not show love in my family-- I am just another housewife.

If I'm producing lovely-things --sewing, art; if I always look attractive, and speak intelligently, but am not loving to my family-- I am nothing.

If I'm busy in community affairs, teach Sunday School, and drive in the carpool, but fail to give adequate love to my family-- I am gain nothing.

Love changes diapers, cleans up messes, and ties shoes-- over and over again.

Love is kind, even though tired and frazzeled.

Love does not envy another wife-- whose children are "spaced" better, or in school so she has time to pursue her own interests.

Love does not try to impress others with my abilities or knowledge as a mother.

Love doesn't scream at the kids.

Love doesn't feel cheated because I didn't get to do what I wanted to do today--sew, read, soak in a hottub.

Love doesn't lose my temper easily.

Love doesn't assume that my children are being naughty because their noise level is irritating.

Love doesn't rejoice when other peoples children misbehave and make mine look good. Love is genuinely happy when others are honored by their children."