it’s hard work

Sometimes I’m so busy raising kids that I feel like I’m missing their lives. (Does that even make sense? Yes? No?)

That sensation hit strong a couple of weeks ago. I was feeling really bad for myself. Feeling like these kids are growing up so quickly, and I’m missing the whole thing because they’re such handfuls.

And then I sort of laughed at myself. Laughed because I get so, so, so sidetracked sometimes!

The Holy Spirit reminded me: The point of all this is not sentimentality. It is not the “How Many Warm Fuzzies Can You Have” game. A string of exhausting days with few-and-far-between picture perfect moments does not necessarily equal failure. (My melancholy mind always jumps right to failure. Sorry if that seems dramatic. Ha!)

The point (He reminded me) is
— young boys to men
— fools to wisdom seekers
— darkness to light

There is very little that is cute, warm, or fuzzy about those things. They are serious, war-waging, blood-sweat-and-tears things.

So should I feel like I’m a failure when I’m exhausted? When I feel utterly spent? No. I’m in the trenches and should be giving 100%.

When we were first married, Ryan would sometimes remark on how tired he was. Our dear landlord would smile and say, in his Down East way, “Well, it’s Friday evening. If you’re not tired on Friday evening, you’re doing something wrong.”

And sometimes I have to remind myself of the same thing: Stop being an idealist. Real life is work, and being tired isn’t a sign of failure. (Yes, it’s a sign of weakness, but I’m learning to be content even in that.) Do I need to cave to the flesh when I’m tired? No. There’s grace for that. And joy, too.

But this is not vacation; this is work. This is not my destination; I am moving forward. There are gifts along the way that fill my mama-heart with incredible joy — but that is not the end goal. To see Jesus formed in them. That will be the greatest joy.

13 Comments it’s hard work

  1. Korie

    Just so you know, Jesus used you to hit the nail on the head for me tonight. I so very much needed to read this, because after this last week, I can relate. Thanks for sharing your heart with all of us so freely, friend.

    Reply
  2. AngelaSundara...etc

    First, I can’t believe Jameson is so grown up! I wouldn’t have recognized him!!! Second, thanks for sharing. I needed that! And, I confess, I needed to hear that a Sinclair woman isn’t perfect all the time. I know y’all say you aren’t, but to me… well, it’s hard to not envy your inheritances. That’s just me being honest.

    Reply
  3. Helen

    I remember being so tired and always wondering “when can I get a break” when my kids were young. It is a VERY demanding season. It gets easier as they grow, but it’s good to relish these years when you can and remember that someday they’ll be too big to sit in your lap.

    Reply
  4. jeannie dunphey

    the only thing I can add to your blog is you have chosen the best most rewarding job in the world. I actually never remember being terribly exhausted when I was raising my 3. I do remember challenges of older children but you will never have those. I guess what I am saying is when they are older you will only remember the good. I guess looking back it was all good. Loved these pics and I too cannot believe how old Jameson is looking. When did that happen. I have been waiting for these memorial day pics. Thanks Danica.

    Reply
  5. linda

    I have read this three times now since midnight yesterday. So thankful for Jesus and His Holy Spirit that comforts and directs. Thank You for these words, for being a vessel filled to overflowing with His grace for His purposes.

    Reply
  6. sky signup

    Wow that was unusual. I just wrote an really long comment but after
    I clicked submit my comment didn’t appear. Grrrr… well I’m not writing all that over again.
    Anyhow, just wanted to say fantastic blog!

    Reply
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