If only I could be more like them

Wonder becomes possible when children can risk being themselves without there being any risk at all. If only I could shelter my children from the risk, from the fear, from the world around them..........

I just love this picture of Nathan...it encapsulates how my children see the world..new, fresh, and beautiful. They have such an incredible sense of wonder..such awesome imaginations. If only I could be more like my children.

I strive to be the kind of mother who models interest and attraction to the world around me. I strive to be spontaneous and look for the joy in little things. I strive to be more like my children...full of curiosity and excitement, while never ceasing an opportunity because of embarrassment or apprehension.

My whole life I avoided situations because I was afraid, nervous that I would embarrass myself. I have missed out on so many things in my life because of fear. As Alex is getting older and the world requires him to conform, I see little glimpses of fear cropping up in him. He is growing more and more nervous about trying new things.

The day Alex was born and I looked into his beautiful little innocent face; a face that knew nothing of fear, embarrassment, hate, or pain; I knew that I didn't want my children to live their lives with trepidation. I vowed on that day to be an example to my children; Strong and full of confidence, a woman that walked into a new situation with no anxiety. I pray, that with the Lords' help, I can be the example of strength and confidence I want to be. I pray my children will never lose their clear-eyed vision, their innocent instinct for what is beautiful and awe-inspiring, and will enter each new adventure with sureness and fortitude. As I watch Alex show those glimpses of fear, I have renewed this vow to my children. .....I will start each new day with a refreshed confidence, as a strong and courageous woman and an example to my boys.

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isiah 41:10