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.
To parents of kids of all ages: God sees you. He knows your tears, your trials and your pains. He knows the longing of your heart in wanting the absolute best for your children. He shares the pain that you feel for them when they hurt. In the moments when you just feel like giving up (even though you know you never could) and in the moments where you long for the “easier” days, allow Him to whisper these four sweet words to bring peace to your heart:
This too shall pass.
With Grace,
Lindsey
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This article originally appeared at Sparrows + Lily.
