The things of the heart
Today this little moment happened that rocked me to the core (in a good way). You know those moments in time that just stick in your mind like a video clip on replay. It was such an insignificant moment but so significant to me.
Toby, Chico (my dog) and I were playing in the lounge room. I started throwing Chico's favourite soccer ball to him. He would retrieve it and then begin the eternal chase or escape from excited baby routine. Tobias would squeal with delight as he chased Chico around with his ball in his mouth. For what seems like ages Chico kept running away from the poor little soul until I finally made Chico come and drop the ball so Toby could have a turn with the ball. I thought he may keep the ball for a while seeing as he had his eye on it for so long. But after holding the ball for only a few seconds, he turns to Chico and passes the ball to him. He was holding it at Chico's paws, possibly thinking he would pick it up with them. Instead Chico takes the ball in his mouth and walks off as Tobs smiles happily.
It was such a little moment but for a second I saw kindness in my sons heart. I can't describe the joy and pride I felt! It was the first time Tobias had ever done that, so maybe that's why. But I guess I also got to see a beautiful heart growing in my babe, and that brings so much joy.
How do we, as Mums, nurture that little heart? How do we encourage kindness and compassion, respect and humility? How do we raise up the warrior in our kids, so they can fight for what is true and honest, pure and good?
I thought about these questions and realised a few things. One, we have to live by example! Ouch, this one hurt a little. Am I an example of having a good heart, a healthy heart, a kind heart?
I like to think I am, but I'll keep working on that one. Secondly, you have to water and fertilise and nurture a plant for it to grow and be strong. You have to be intentional! Let's remember to water and nurture those qualities we want our kids to have. Teach them to be kind by making a hand made gift for someone together, bless someone together, be honest when someone you know is going through a hard time and talk to your kids about it. Ultimately, let's champion our babes on when we see their little hearts becoming big hearts. It makes me sad when I see a little darling bring their Mumma a flower and she dismisses it so quickly because she is in a conversation or distracted.
I hope my words and affirmations can bring joy and strength to Toby as he grows. I can't wait to see his little heart grow BIG and beautiful.
Toby, Chico (my dog) and I were playing in the lounge room. I started throwing Chico's favourite soccer ball to him. He would retrieve it and then begin the eternal chase or escape from excited baby routine. Tobias would squeal with delight as he chased Chico around with his ball in his mouth. For what seems like ages Chico kept running away from the poor little soul until I finally made Chico come and drop the ball so Toby could have a turn with the ball. I thought he may keep the ball for a while seeing as he had his eye on it for so long. But after holding the ball for only a few seconds, he turns to Chico and passes the ball to him. He was holding it at Chico's paws, possibly thinking he would pick it up with them. Instead Chico takes the ball in his mouth and walks off as Tobs smiles happily.
It was such a little moment but for a second I saw kindness in my sons heart. I can't describe the joy and pride I felt! It was the first time Tobias had ever done that, so maybe that's why. But I guess I also got to see a beautiful heart growing in my babe, and that brings so much joy.
How do we, as Mums, nurture that little heart? How do we encourage kindness and compassion, respect and humility? How do we raise up the warrior in our kids, so they can fight for what is true and honest, pure and good?
I thought about these questions and realised a few things. One, we have to live by example! Ouch, this one hurt a little. Am I an example of having a good heart, a healthy heart, a kind heart?
I like to think I am, but I'll keep working on that one. Secondly, you have to water and fertilise and nurture a plant for it to grow and be strong. You have to be intentional! Let's remember to water and nurture those qualities we want our kids to have. Teach them to be kind by making a hand made gift for someone together, bless someone together, be honest when someone you know is going through a hard time and talk to your kids about it. Ultimately, let's champion our babes on when we see their little hearts becoming big hearts. It makes me sad when I see a little darling bring their Mumma a flower and she dismisses it so quickly because she is in a conversation or distracted.
I hope my words and affirmations can bring joy and strength to Toby as he grows. I can't wait to see his little heart grow BIG and beautiful.
Beautiful comments on our greatest mission as parents...besides all the practical stuff!!
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