So this afternoon, after the kids and I went over their schoolwork, I got into bed and got quiet. Just prayed for the Lord to take the anxiety from me. To save me from myself. In a few minutes the peace came down. Truly. Then oldest daughter (who was off today) and I went out for a coffee. A change of scenery was a treat.
And here's the thing. Last night we had our first night of Advent devotionals here at home and after the prayer I reminded the kids to pray for each other, especially their older brothers. My Woodboy added that he was so thankful for the ones who are staying the course, the steady ones. I forget that. Even today middle daughter shared with our oldest daughter how much she appreciated that her dad had said that. I need to be reminded to not obsess over the troublemakers, and remember our children who are honoring the Lord. I'm not proud of what my mindset has been, but needed a smack.
Tonight is good. I need to appreciate the blessings in front of me and not be side-tracked by other things outside of our home. Second son is here with the ones who live here and he and the girls are playing cards and waiting to watch Father Brown. My Woodboy is working on these fountain pens he's taking a hankering to, and oldest daughter is making muffins.
It's so easy to allow the bitterness and worry to overcome everything else. Not unlike having a serious illness consume a family. Those who are behaving are ignored and unappreciated. Lesson, I hope, learned.
All is well in our house.