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Yesterday I wasn’t feeling well, so I found a spot on the couch and hung out there for a bit. I was quite amazed impressed what happened when I sat on the sidelines for a bit. Within a couple of hours I could barely see the floor as most of the game closet had been emptied out, one tv show had easily run into two and three but no one was watching it. A box of Cheez-its was consumed straight out of the box and the crumbs on the floor were proof, along with plates filled with Ranch for dipping veggies in on the table. There was a jump rope hanging from the ceiling fan and another one wrapped around one of the kitchen table chairs. Not bad, huh?

Now none of this is bad in itself. I was thankful I was able to have a couple of hours to rest, in spite of what of the house looked like at the end. But what struck me was that being a mom is an active role. It’s not a game that you can sit back and watch from the sidelines. You gotta get in there and do it to make a difference. These little ones need our guidance, correction and direction. I’m talking more than just how to keep a semi-cleaned house, but through the ins and outs their everyday lives.

I’ll be the first to admit that sometimes it all gets a little too overwhelming and I zone out to all the chaos. I check my phone, flip open my computer, keep myself moving with unnecessary busyness because I don’t want to engage.

But when I do that I realize I’m missing out. I miss out on their silly games, their crazy questions and seeing what next thing their imagination will come up with. I miss out hearing from their hearts, what they are feeling and thinking. I may miss out on an opportunity to speak truth and love into their lives. I don’t want to miss out. I don’t want to be on sidelines, but engaged in this crazy game of life with them.

Now I know we all need a break. It’s ok to give ourselves “time outs” throughout the day Escape away to your closet or bathroom to collect your thoughts, scream a silent scream or soak in a bit of silence. Maybe for you it’s setting aside a time each day that is yours. I attempt (all 3 are early risers here) to start my day before my kids to get some “me” time in. It’s hard but it helps and is so worth it. My days are better when I start my day alone with Him in a quiet house. I am able to stick through the day longer, fully engaged when I am filled up first. I have mentioned it many time before but I have joined the Hello Mornings Challenge to help keep me accountable to starting my day right. I have recently been asked to be a part of the Hello Mornings team! I am so excited to join this amazing team because Hello Mornings has really changed my life. Registration for the summer session has just opened. I highly encourage you to check it out!

Our little ones are looking to us. Oh Lord, help us to be there for them, fully engaged. Let us not take a backseat role or stand on the sidelines. Let’s get in the game.