Faith, Time, Patience

Today's Quote

Your three best doctors are faith, time, and patience.

-From a fortune cookie

I have faith that I will not stray from a true heart today. I will take time to appreciate all that I have been so graciously blessed with and I will be patient in my travels and trials. Should I lose my way, I know that He will lead me back to the path of righteousness.

I have two soccer games to attend today. We have a short drive to Sagamihara Housing Annex for Joniece's game at 1030. I guess we'll leave here around 0930, because the traffic is unpredictable. -- Gotta love Japan's traffic -- We'll have to leave immediately after the game to head back to NAF Atsugi for Jasmine's game. Her game starts at 1200. She's not joining us for Joniece's game, just in case we don't make it back in time.

Joseph's game (last night) was fun. The division he plays for (5-6 yrs) is so fun to watch. They're in the stage or phase of still learning the game and not yet realizing the competition. They're out there having so much fun. Joseph doesn't even know or care that they haven't won a single game, yet, this season. He still loves to go out there and have fun with all his friends and teammates. It's so refreshing to see such innocence. When they knock one another over, it never causes fuss or fights. They stop to help each other up and apologize, even if it was accidental.

When do they lose that? At what age do they start to take offense to everything? And that's where we come in. That's where the effect of our parenting takes over completely. Where the outside influence means very little. Sure, they learn so much from teachers, peers, the community. BUT, it's the actions and reactions of "US", their parents, that will determine what they will choose as their rights and wrongs. Where is this coming from?

Watching how kids act and react is something I have been trying hard not to take for granted. I learn so much from them. When I sit back and watch the actions and reactions of my own children, I learn so much about myself. Sometimes it's not always something to be proud of. They really are like sponges that absorb EVERYTHING! The past few weeks have been a harsh reality of my moodiness around them. I see myself, my actions and reactions, in them. Holy moly I need quite a bit of self improvement. I never realize how bad my attitude is until I'm correcting it in my children. Good going, huh? At least I know. At least I am doing what I know is right to make the necessary changes for myself and my family. It's never too late nor the wrong time for self evaluation and self improvement.

I've discussed this with my three older children, but Jayda doesn't quite understand yet. Right now, for Jayda, all I can do is be the role model she needs and deserves. She's with me 24/7 so she is a reflection of ALL I do. Joniece, Jasmine and Joseph have all been great through my mood swings. They actually make jokes and put me in my place when need be. Grrrr, but I'm grateful.

What am I doing????? I have to get ready!! Gotta get everyone and everything together. GO PYTHONS! GO Team DYNAMITE!! May you all have a beautiful and blessed day!