Dealing With the Unexpected
Do you ever think about how much of life is spent dealing with the unexpected? I guess the question is "How do you deal with surprise?" Yesterday I surprised Christopher and Jonathan when I took them for a "treat" before church. They thought that a treat equaled a milkshake, but I took them to play some games at a famous mouse-themed pizza joint. They had no idea what was coming, were bewildered as we passed every place they thought we might be going, and asked me a half-million times what their suprise was going to be despite my assurances to be patient. I thought about how kids are not very good with surprises sometimes!
But after more reflections, this experience reminds me of how I find it difficult to wait whether in the doctor's office, in traffic, or at a restaurant. I also act impatiently many times when I am waiting on God's answer to a prayer concern or in the face of an unknown situation. I act this way despite God's assurances to hear my prayers and answer them and the knowledge that God loves me and is good. When I think about my own behavior when faced with waiting, I can understand my children a little better! I realize that my reactions are often not that different from my kids, which makes me glad God is patient!
Do you find it hard to wait as parent? Where are the places you have the most difficult time being patient?
Comments (1)
That's a great thought...I'm often amazed at how closely my two year old is watching me, but I never really thought about it in the waiting department. Now I can be more aware and I will make sure I am waiting in a way that is a good example for her. :)
Posted on May 14, 2009 7:01 PM