The baby's crying unconsolably. The phone's ringing. The big sister is hungry and has a hundred questions; oh, and the baby's crying stresses her out. The water I was *attempting* to boil is now spilling over because it's been sitting there entirely too long set on high. I am overwhelmed and I want to throw in the towel and cry.
prringg! A text message assaults my phone and my senses. Angry at the interruption on my self-pity Mama-Friend writes "How's your day going? Thinking about ya!" And I break down. It's friends like these and texts like these that keep me going.
It was so completely insignificant, yet it touched my heart strings like few other things could. I am convinced that old African Proverb was on to something. You know, the one that says "It takes a village to raise a child."
But, I think it has less to do with everyone putting their hands in the cookie jar of parenting and more to do with the support a family needs to do the job properly.
I need encouragement. I need a friend to call when I feel like I can't do this. I need to know I'm walking alongside someone and that they are as imperfect as I am. I need community.
And for the most part, I truly feel like I have it. I am beyond blessed to have a wonderful pot of friendships from every different walk of life that I can trust and turn to for support, encouragement and a reciprocated efforts to them. But I am starting to notice that this may not be norm.
It is so important that we establish community amongst ourselves so that we remain safe and secure and accountable for our mothering, our wifeliness and our walks with the Lord.
"He who separates himself seeks his own desire, He quarrels against all sound wisdom." (Prov. 18:1)
"Do not be deceived; Bad company corrupts good character." (1 Cor 15:33)
"Do not be deceived; Bad company corrupts good character." (1 Cor 15:33)
It is important we surround ourselves with good company. Company who will speak Scripture into us and not allow us to dishonor our family in any way. Company who will be bold and unashamed in their stance for righteousness and stir us to do the same. Company who will stir us to be like Christ and love and serve Him wholeheartedly.
I would encourage that you create a culture of community wherever you are. Make yourself available and be open with both your sucesses and your failures. Make the first move and see what happens. Encourage yourself in the Lord and practice sound wisdom. Surround yourselves with godly women who will speak life and courage into you daily!
I really agree with your post, it is nice to have godly women around you. I found our church when my first child was under a year old, and I was so blessed to meet many wonderful godly women who have taught me so much over the years.
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