Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Describe (write a story about) one odd item you have in your purse or wallet right now


The folded paper is tucked away so well, I'd forgotten it was there. I pull it out, careful not to dislodge the other papers and receipts folded into the same pocket. It comes out with some effort, and I unfold it to see what's hidden inside.
"Teaching Reverence to Our Children" the title reads.
It's a bullet point list that our women's church group (relief society (the largest women's organization in the world)) had a lesson on a couple months ago. I remember attending and being impressed with the amount of advice and help I received from other moms with similarly aged kids. It was one of those things where I had a complete mind shift. Things I'd never thought of, that were simple and easy, made the biggest difference.
As I scan through the list, I realize I've been doing a better job than I thought. I've really taken the lessons to heart, and found great success.  The biggest change I made was, instead of bringing my huge diaper bag full of countless toys and snacks to church, I now pack a couple quiet books, a handful of toys (usually 5 tractors or trucks that were Hesston's favorite that week), and a Lunchable snack pack (he loves those things, and it combines a drink with the crackers so I don't have to pack a bunch of different things last minute, because let's be honest, I leave things like that until the last minute).
It has been a huge help, keeping things simpler. I used to think that I needed to pack everything, and there would be toys and books and crayons and snacks scattered everywhere by the time sacrament meeting was over. I was so afraid that I couldn't keep him busy and happy with only a few toys, so I thought more would help. Contrary to my belief, the more simple I make it, the better. With only 5 toys, 3 books, and one coloring book, he stays more content, and less distracted by trying to go through all his toys in one sitting.
I remember the first Sunday I packed his backpack with the small amount of entertainment. I was worried, ready for a fight, and wearing my easiest to maneuver in dress, just in case I had to toddler chase or wrangle. But to my surprise, it was by far the best and easiest Sunday meeting I'd been to. Hesston played happily with his couple toys, even sharing with neighboring friends, and there were books he never even got to. It was like a miracle.
Every Sunday since that first Sunday has been getting better and better. We make it a priority to sing together, sit quietly and fold our arms when the prayers are said, pay attention while the sacrament is passed, and even listen to the speakers occasionally. With less toys, comes less distraction and clean up for mom and dad, so we enjoy the meeting more too.
I glance back at the paper. I can't believe all those lessons and memories came from a single bullet point on the list. But I'm more glad now than ever that I took the time out of my busy evening to attend this activity. It makes me appreciate the inspiration and guidance of the sisters in my church, and their love for us, especially our children, in teaching them reverence and respect for not only those around us, but for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

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