Struggles

Today, as Brazen and Samantha were helping me, helping their family, in the morning chaos I had to remind myself and them that the struggle was just part of life sometimes and reassured them it was okay.  And I hope they can develop their own comfort with our chaos, that involves offering their love and understanding as the necessary tool.  

It reminds me to let them see me struggle.  To let them see me try and fail and resume life all over again.  To let them witness that failure not defining me. When they see me cry over loss and hopes crushed and letting them feel satisfied that their love makes a difference in the mending.   Sometimes I see the wonder in their eyes when they see someone upset and I think that because they understand that there is a degree of loss or pain or struggle they get caught up in the moment and don't know if life will exist beyond this immediate circumstance.  When the currant returns and they recognize life flows beyond what has just happened, or what we are afraid is going to happen, I see the relief wash over them.  

And, it reminds me to let them struggle. To take a step back and let them count on loving arms, regardless of their journey. 

My Dad used to tell me, "I can help you, but I can't do it for you."

I'm grateful to hear those words echoed to me and represent a cautious hand when I want to make the easy choice and do it all for them.