I need to do better

I have never really been known for my patience. I know I surprised people, mainly myself and my family, when I had my children and realized I do possess the quality. It was hard to be patient with my husband, but very easy to be patient with my children.

Fast forward to July 2009, and today I find myself lacking that very important quality. Two days ago, I found myself telling my one year old (as if it would make me feel better), "I used to think I was a good mom until you came along." (I hope you can appreciate my honesty.) As my busy season begins (Accountants have the spring, crafters have the summer through December), and I can feel the pressure to crank out products, I have found I have lost my patience one too many times. This morning as I woke up and watched Trevan sleep (who crawled into our bed sometime early this morning), I decided I was going to be the patient mom that I used to be.

Patience (pā-shəns) is the state of endurance under difficult circumstances (trying to work with Mallary's screaming in the background), which can mean persevering in the face of delay (Trevan not doing what I ask when I ask) or provocation (Mallary screaming, "Mommy" a bazillion times a day) without becoming annoyed or upset; or exhibiting forbearance when under strain, especially when faced with longer-term difficulties. Definition found here.

So, this morning I was using the bathroom looked over and noticed there was no toilet paper to be found. I asked Trevan to bring me some toilet paper from the other bathroom, he brought me a solitary square. I smiled, and told him I needed a whole roll. "Oh," he said with his little grin. He pitter pattered into the other bathroom, and then I heard him use the bathroom. I sat there and thought about patience as I heard the other toilet flush. Then, he came back with another single, small square. I again told him kindly, where exactly to find the roll that I needed. A minute later his pitter patter of feet brought me the whole roll of toilet paper. I already passed my first test in patience this morning.

"Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections but instantly set about remedying them - everyday begin the task anew." - St. Francis de Sales Quote found here.