As humans, we want some form of control.  Even the most laid back people want control over something.  It’s human nature.  We want to control our clothing, our food, our entertainment, our time, pretty much everything we can.  I think being a parent makes this even worse.  Not only are we trying to control our own lives, but we feel like we’re responsible for controlling our little people’s lives too.  It can get a little exhausting.

I think it’s important that we take a look at how we control our kids lives to get some relief.  For me personally, I let my kids make some decisions, and ultimately, some mistakes.  They can chose their clothes (if it’s not a picture day), they can chose what they want to eat (within reason and nutritionally sound choices), and they can chose what to play (as long as no weapons are involved).  But if anything comes up that could be questionable, I want them to check it out with me.  They should come ask me, talk to me about it, and I’ll let them know my decision.  They may not like it, but it’s out of their control.

As a child of God, I’m not sure I always handle it the same way.  I know when I face hard choices, I pray about it.   I can’t say, however, that I always accept the decision that’s handed to me.  But just as my kids have to accept the fact that I’m in control of their current situation, I should be accepting the fact that God is always in control of mine.

I think if I could learn to do this more graciously, I would have an easier time in life and scramble less for control.  I would be free to decide how to move forward from my new spot instead of pouting about where I wanted to be.  That’s what I expect my kids to do, so why shouldn’t I do the same?