Letter of Encouragement
from my heart to yours
I've heard from so many homeschooling moms (in our community and outside) that it's feeling so difficult right now. Homeschooling is hard. It is so rewarding, but it is hard. We are in the dark days of the down season. Th high and excitement of the new year has worn off, the holidays are over and we're inside... a lot. I'm not sure where you're all at, but I know I have days where I feel like I'm failing. At school, at work, at life. And sometimes I am. Yesterday after unloading the car, I left the back hatch of my van open for several hours... and the sliding door, all night and all day. In the pouring rain. I drop the ball, and am extended grace by my family and friends. Grateful doesn't begin to describe how I feel.
A wise, seasoned homeschooling mom told me once to never make major decisions about homeschooling in January and February. If you're feeling like you're not going to make it, you are failing your kids, and this is the worst decision you've ever made, hang in there. Things turn around. Spring comes, we survive the year, we get to see the accomplishments of our children and see the rewards of these long days. And give yourself permission to take a day off (or a few) to do something fun. Read all day, craft all day, play all day whatever it is that brings you and your kids joy. Take time to rekindle and nourish the fun.
I've had the distinct pleasure to get to know another homeschooling mom who is further along down this road than I am. She has graduated 2 kids from CC, has one in Ch 4 and one in CH 1. I am grateful to hear her stories and soak in her wisdom. She shared with me the other night "your kids don't remember the things we think we've failed at." What a wonderful reminder that the hours we're pouring into our kids are all worth it and they'll remember the good times we've had.
I've noticed, and cherish, the times my kids come to me for a hug during the day. They're getting older, so it's less frequent, but I wonder "who would be meeting this need if they weren't with me." There are so many emotional, spiritual and yes, physical needs we get the privilege of meeting by having our kids home with us. You are chosen by the Lord to be in this relationship with your child. You won't regret this.
Some of you are in the midst of really hard life right now. You may have a child with special needs, you may be having marriage issues, you may have a sick family member or friend. There are so many other things that require your attention, you may feel like you're being pulled apart. The Lord is with you, he will not leave you nor forsake you. If you're struggling share with someone. Let us help share the burden.
James 5: 11 says " As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy."
The Lord is fill of compassion and mercy. Let's rest in that. Allow yourself to receive it.
I'll close with one of my favorite verses... "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6
Love and Blessings,
Michelle