Where Are My Children?

As mothers of young children, we can all too often feel that our days are more than routine, they're almost mundanely mapped out. From the care of bathing, clothing, feeding, washing, shopping and cleaning up after our babies and little ones, it seems that three quarters of the day is usually already full. This does not include anyone being sick or the natural hiccups that are inevitably to come. Now with three of my six children being adults, I have the beautiful benefit of hindsight. I remember when I came to that critical junction in my life where things permanently changed....when my perception shifted from what was perceived as humdrum and not very purposeful, to something deliberate and determined. This is how it happened ...

While visiting with my sister in law, I noticed the one paper on her fridge that wasn't decorated with crayons. It immediately caught my attention because the first line read, "Where are my Children?" As I began to read, I smiled at the initial references to childhood play and fun, however it quickly took a deep turn. I found my pulse quicken and a lump began forming in my throat. As I saw into what could be my future if I did not align myself differently, tears filled my eyes and before I knew it I was physically sobbing. I immediately obtained a copy and within less than two days had it memorized. For the last 15 years I have shared it with dozens of mothers, friends and even strangers. When going around the room once at a baby shower and asked to give advice, I quoted this passionately word for word. I share with you today...

Where are my Children? Have you seen anywhere, a dear boy and a girl and their much younger brother of 4? It was only today that barefooted and brown they played by my kitchen door. It was only today or maybe a year, it couldn't be 20 I know! They were calling to me to come out and to play but I was too busy to go. Too busy with cooking and cleaning to play and now they've grown up and wandered away. If by chance you should hear of a boy and a girl and a much smaller brother of four, please tell them I pray to be with them once more I gladly go hungry I'm poor. Sometimes I think they must stop and look back and wish they were children once more, and oh to be with and them and wanted! I'd run out my kitchen door! For there isn't a job that could keep me away, could I just hear my children call me to play. Where are my children? I've got time today...

I committed myself fully, in that moment, that I would never be a mother with a regret that ached in grief and loss of time. It was in those moments of playing with my children, even when they made fun of my voice as I pretended to be another character or told me I was making the sound of a car wrong, that we connected and became the friends we are today... ​

​ (When our children feel our love they are more inclined to be more obedient which in turn makes life more joyous. If you're looking for a fun, effective and satisfying way to understand how your child feels love, I would highly recommend, "The 5 Love Languages" by Gary D. Chapman. There is even an online question-and-answer you can give them.)