This afternoon my 13 year old son came home and said, “I lost my suit.” In a matter of 3.7 milliseconds I realized that he had just thrown away a $40 swim team bathing suit two days before the final city swim meet of the season. I went to the dark side…..I looked at him sternly, said, “I can’t believe you lost your suit, where was the last place you were, did you even look for it?” All the regular questions (or accusations) a mom says. Then I walked away from the car and had this frustrated look on my face.
My neighbor, gotta love him-walked up with his cheerful, smiling, easy going self and said, “It’s a beautiful day”….or something like that (I was on the dark side, trying not to be ticked off-so I don’t really remember what he said)…..then I told him-well, I’m trying not to be mad – blah, blah, blah…..we both agreed that parenting was the hardest job either one of us has ever had. Two learning lessons appeared. 1-Lean into what frustrates you & let it out-just don’t stay in frustration mode too long. 2-Even if your neighbor is the senior pastor for one of the largest church’s in Greensboro, NC – be yourself. (Thanks Joe, you’re awesome for receiving me with such grace this afternoon on the driveway and helping me to keep things in perspective.)
