... my 2 oldest had 2 different stories when caught doing something that was not allowed. Do I remember what it was now? Heck no. But I remember how my mind scrambled about how I could teach these 2 young blessings of mine that lying, deceit or "white lies" was simply not acceptable. Ever! In the moments that only young parents can understand, I needed help now and quick to teach this character lesson. (Arrow prayers are wonderful.) As my heart prayed very quickly with words for help, I started to explain to them I was not dumb. I knew that one of them was not telling me what really had happened... and the one who had tried to protect themselves with not telling the truth was wrong. Therefore, I was giving them one chance to correct the wrong action. One at a time, I instructed, they would tell me (while away from the other) what had really happened and that the only way to be sure their story matched would be to tell the truth. If their stories matched, there would not be the expected punishment, but mercy. If they didn't, both would get the expected punishment... and the guilty would cause pain for the other... just as lying or deceit does in life, period. Guess what! I got 2 matching stories... and a remorseful heart, and a young prayer that said they were sorry. Do I remember who lied? Nope. I just remember the quick wisdom sent from above, the grateful heart of a woman who was entirely inadequate at the moment, and the love I felt for both of those children entrusted to me.
How different life would be if all lived telling the truth... and young moms trusted God for wisdom. Believe me, this was not the last panic session I had with parenting... and even though they have all fledged the nest... it probably won't be the last. I've learned with full heart, it is good to look to Another... in all things... and not hide...
May I also be as honest with Him.
