Finding Space while Sheltering at Home

The tenants of our Christian faith does not say much on the practicalities of parenting and yet Jesus is an amazing guide on how to be human. This actually helps a lot as I navigate the stressors of home/work life. The basics on being a thoughtful human is perhaps the most central gift we give to our kids.

This week I am noticing that sheltering at home makes alone time a challenge to find. More is asked of parents with less time for reflection. For example, I used to take a day off each week while the girls were at school and Chad at work. Now my day off is with a house of people with needs, ideas, and wants. It takes more effort to find some time alone. And it is difficult for me to be a good thoughtful human without some personal space.

On the subject of balance, Jesus himself went off to pray often. The gospels report he went to a lonely place, left the group, and was alone on the beach many times. This invites us to understand our faith and relationship with God as a hiding place, where we return and rest, seek the guidance that just comes when we are in silence, alone, and still. The wisdom you need is already given much of the time.

In light of needing space, hearing the news that the kids will be E-schooled for remainder of the year is a difficult reality to face. We worry about our kids getting what they need in terms of socializing, sports, clubs, academic growth etc. And we are aware of our own needs for space, a date night, some time for personal care taking etc. We are in this for a long haul with summer break ahead as well. Our children are in a unique experience they will always remember. Although the challenge is real, the potential for parenting is awesome. We have just been given a much larger influence on our kids. Reflect, recharge, rest, seek the guidance you need and compassion and creativity guide you forward. That is what Jesus would say!

Christianity has made the most difference in my life in that it simply has taught me to respect myself and my need for prayerful reflection as I seek to serve and love others. Resist the impulse to be in control and have life figured out right now; instead take time to reflect, pray and be in the expansive gift of silence for even ten minutes a day. You will be reoriented toward those elemental and most important values that make a good human being- which is exactly what our kids need most. 

With you on the journey,
Lisa+