Easy Street

I think I began my journey into motherhood with somewhat distorted expectations.  Part of it was from being an only child.  Really, my life was pretty easy in many aspects.  No rules, no accountability, not much authority in my life.  Throw clothes on the floor and mom picks them up.  Ask for whatever I want and get it almost immediately - cost not even a factor most times.

But, lessons not learned when young, do have to be learned at some point.  Life isn’t easy.  And, the most rewarding moments come after trials and suffering.  Paul says in Romans 5:3-5, “We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.”

Each day I am pulled in many directions.  I have 7 beautiful lives I am responsible for.  For their care, their training, and their education.  I so often feel I am falling short.  I feel like I can never give each one what they need.  And then God reminds me that I won’t ever give them all they need, but He will.

It is so interesting.  There really is a street called “Easy Street” in Hawaii.  The first sign is an actual photo of it from a real estate in Hawaii.  I heard a preacher on the radio speak about it.  He went to see it when he was on a trip to Hawaii.  As he drove down the street in the residential area, he saw another sign….”Dead End”.

So, I encourage myself and I encourage you, Fight the good fight, finish the race, keep the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7