An Encouraging Word
Homebodies
By Cheryl Gochnauer
Cheryl@homebodies.org
Copyright 2003
My inbox has been filling up with email as Homebodies readers share their experiences regarding peers who either praise or criticize their decision to stay home with their children.
Nisi wrote in to compliment her sister-in-law, who seems to be just the kind of wonderful, supportive relative at-home parents hope and pray for:
#147;I have been a stay at home mom since my first child was born 14 years ago,#148; Nisi says. #147;We have four children, the 14 year old, a 12 year old, an 8 year old, and the light of our lives, a darling 1 year old girl.
#147;My husband got laid off December 5th from his job, is freelancing, and looking hard for a new job. All my insecurities about staying at home bloomed as I thought about my extensive education and skills not helping out with the family income at this rough time.
#147;But I have been praying about it, and did reach out for support to my sister-in-law." She said the following: "Your children are the warmest, kindest, happiest children because of
your
choices. They are so blessed to have a highly educated mother staying at home with them, guiding them through their lives' highs and lows. Thank goodness you have been there all these years, and not an indifferent daycare provider. You are doing a fabulous job!"
#147;What she said rang true, but it was like water to a thirsty plant in the desert to hear her words just then,#148; Nisi remembers. #147;Sometimes it is necessary to hear the encouragement from others, especially in a society that puts so much importance into acquisition and material gratification.#148;
As Nisi points out, a few well-chosen, kind words can immediately change someone#146;s perspective, providing a lift just when they need it.
Life is hectic. We spend so much time stomping out fires, it#146;s easy to neglect sparking hope in others. Take time today to encourage a friend. If you#146;re not close enough to give them a hug, why not pick up the phone or shoot off a quick email? Let#146;s launch the New Year with a smile!
Comments? Write Cheryl or Nisi at
Cheryl@homebodies.org
, or visit
www.homebodies.org
where you can interact with other at-home parents on the active messageboards. Copyright 2003 Cheryl Gochnauer. Permission granted for use on DrLaura.com
