“Can we watch a movie?” they asked after breakfast this morning. “Sure,” I replied, “But only after you help clean up the kitchen.” And I was pleasantly surprised when they excitedly agreed and got right to work. Because let’s be honest, asking kids to help clean doesn’t always get the most cheery responses.
And when I went in after they finished, and saw a food clogged sink and a few forgotten dishes, I had two options. I could have been irritated because they didn’t do a completely perfect job. Or, I could have yelled a hearty “Thanks!” and shared how much I appreciated their help. I opted for the second. Because I did appreciate their help and I’m okay with them not doing a perfect job. As we raise our kids, I’m slowly learning that perfection isn’t so much the goal. It’s more about giving them opportunities to help and to be responsible. It’s more about letting them learn to consider others and to be a part of helping out in our family. And most of all, its about their hearts and teaching them to be willing to serve.
Afterwards, while they watched their movie, I scooped out the clogged sink with a little smile, thinking how many times I’m so thankful that God reaches down to help me. It was a nice reminder to start the day out with.
Laura Herr Photography 