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Mother to Son
This poem, by an anonymous poet, provides a powerful insight into the lives of busy mothers, and asks whether they should reassess their priorities.
My hands were busy through the day
I didn't have much time for you
I'd wash your clothes,
I'd sew and cook,
But when you'd bring your picture book and asked me please to share your fun,
I'd say, "A little later son."
I'd tuck you in all safe at night,
Turn out the light,
Then tip toe softly to the door,
I'd wish I stayed a minute more.
For life is short the years rush past,
A little boy grows up so fast,
No longer is he at your side,
His precious secrets to confide.
The picture books have gone away,
There are no longer games to play,
No goodnight kisses, no prayers to hear,
That all belongs to yester years.
My hands once busy are now still,
The days long and hard to fill,
I wish I could go back and do
The little things you asked me to.
-- Author unknown, contributed by Sree
As Sree says, your work will wait while you take time out and show your child the rainbow, but the rainbow won't wait until you finish your work.
How much do you devote to your children? Often, even stay at home mothers are constantly running around trying to complete chores, and the time they actually sit down and spend with their children, talking or playing with them, is minimal. Think about it. How often has your child wanted to play a board game with you, and how often have you turned him down because you were too busy or otherwise occupied. Remember, the world will not come to an end if you complete your chores a little later, but you may miss out on some important times with your child - which will never return.
Of course, you cannot spend all your time playing with your children, but do make it a point to take time out to spend some with them - focussing on their needs and doing what they want. Try and make a routine out of it. Keep aside one night in a week for spending time playing or talking with your family, at home. Don't get distracted by phone calls or by the television - just focus on your children.
Keep aside another night, once a week, to go somewhere together as a family. You could perhaps go for dinner, for bowling, or for a movie. If you don't go for regular family outings from now, then don't expect them to suddenly start accompanying you every where when they are older and already plan all their activities around their friends.
Invite your children's friends over often. Yes, your grocery bills may go up, but you will get an opportunity to know who your child is hanging out with. This gets more important when your child is in his teens. In addition, the more you meet your child's friends, the more your child will involve you in his life with them.
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