A Lesson for Mommy

This past Sunday, I loaded all the kids in the car and we headed home like we normally do, when out of nowhere, Ava says, "Mom, we need to do a service project, like raking leaves or something."  I casually responded with, "That's a great idea,"  and we continued our drive home.  At the time I thought this was just a fleeting thought coming from my 7 year old, but when we got home and she persisted and I realized that if she is asking to "work" outside or wants to do service for others, I better take it seriously.  The next day on our daily drive to and from school, I scouted all the yards along the way looking for leaves.  I only found 1 yard and it was covered!  Perfect!  So on Tuesday, we bought some leaf bags and headed over to our dear friends, the Stimpson's.  They both work and have 2 little kids in daycare, so they are rarely home during the daylight hours.  Ava and Brycen were so excited and quickly got to work.  Even Carter helped carry handfuls of leaves to the bag.  After we finished raking, I asked Ava and Brycen how they felt about the service they provided tonight.  How did they feel inside?  Both of them, but especially Ava, said they felt good and happy.  

I learned a valuable lesson that day.  I learned to listen better and remember to teach my children about serving others, because right now they are willing and want to do it, and will remember how they feel.  It is important to continually teach our children when they are young, because we may not get the chance later if we wait.  Sometimes I get comfortable in my daily routine and forget to reach beyond the "norm" and find opportunities for growth.  

Every day, but especially during this time of year, I am thankful for my children who remind me what's really important, for my husband who supports me, and for my Heavenly Father who has blessed me with the spirit to know what is right.  To all of them, this humble mother says, "Thank you." 

Ava, Brycen and our friend Hudson Stimpson.