LoveWorksStill

There is this place called there that I worry about every time storms come.  It’s like as soon as things begin to get better, the rain is just released from the sky to downpour on my hopes for the future.  Before you have a query about if this is going to lead to a long drawn out “woe is me” spill, have no fear!  

This place called there is my backyard!  It is such a battle ground between dirt and water.  The drainage is terrible even though there has been some brooks dug out for the water to go.  My children, especially this little boy of mine, finds it necessary to make his way to the brooks every time he goes outside.  The rain comes and goes, but the dirt doesn’t dry out fast enough to endure the footprints of a three year old.  I can find myself fussing at my obstinate son to get out of the mud every five seconds as he laughingly proceeds to run faster away from me.

The other day, I realized that I was tired of fighting this battle with him. I believe that mud should be explored.  Just not in good clothes!  What would you do?  Let him ruin every pair of socks he has because he doesn’t want to put his shoes back on after getting off of the trampoline?  I’m pretty sure so many of you reading this are laughing but also understand my pain.  A new strategy was needed.

What I have decided to do is buy him some water boots and a water suit.  If he wants to play in the mud, he must have on the proper gear.  If he gets too close to the mud, I will have to remind him of the boundaries that we have set in place to help meet his needs.  I will let you know how this goes, but let’s take a break from this for now.

We should vehemently believe in the power of boundaries.   We should also unanimously agree that if there is a problem in our lives, we need to find a way to solve it and not ignore it.   I began dreading the rain, but at the same time, a part of me loved it equally.  It is not that I don’t want the rain.  It’s just the problems that arise from it leaving its mark in my yard, or in my life that I don’t like.  

I want to encourage you that just because it rains in times when you feel like you are getting ahead, be reminded that there is more to explore.  Research has shown that if you were to play in the mud, it can fight germs and help build a stronger immune system. Don’t get so caught in the opinions of others that you miss some great moments and memories. I know that if I’m not careful, I find myself wondering what my neighbors will think of me allowing my children to get down and dirty with the mud! The question I leave you with is this:  Have you been fighting the rain or creating boundaries so that you can embrace what it leaves you? Get your rain attire on and let’s go jump in some muddy puddles together.

Until next time, #loveworkswhenourwordsdont! 💚

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