When your 16-year-old experiments with temptation or battles bullying or peer pressure and you feel defenseless in protecting or guiding
them – this too shall pass.
And when your little baby goes off to college and you see that they need you a little less each day and have nearly forgotten the time and love that you have invested into their every moment – this too shall pass.
In parenting, both the immense love and worry that we feel for our kids won’t ever fade. The hardship simply changes and shifts as our babies grow a little bit bigger each year.
But friends, what we need to remember is that the sweetest moments of parenthood will pass even more quickly.
The moments of holding a new, sweet-smelling baby in your two arms and snuggling them so closely.
The feeling of having one of the greatest responsibilities in the world in caring for someone who can’t yet care for themselves.
The first noises, coos and giggles that make your heart feel like it’s going to explode with joy.
This too shall pass.
The cutest, most mispronounced words you’ve ever heard.
The very first-time ‘mom’ and ‘dad’ are spoken from their sweet little mouths.
The snuggles, strangling neck hugs and I love you’s.
And the realization that you are the only person in their little world as important and special as you.
This too shall pass.
The moments of sweet adventure when they see something for the very first time with you by their side.
Having the opportunity to teach them pivotal life lessons like respect, loyalty, responsibility, and kindness.
Watching each day as they grow into a little human being that you’re so incredibly proud to be raising.
This too shall pass.
Talking them through their nervousness as you help them get ready for their first school dance.
Holding them tightly as they cry tears on your shoulder when they experience their first real heartbreak.
Walking them down the aisle as you watch them take on the world with someone they love so deeply.
This too shall pass.
Let us not forget that with the challenges of parenting also come the sweetest moments that we won’t ever get back. On the days when it feels like frustration and defeat have won, I pray that we will remember that each moment fades as quickly as it comes.
