Children Are a Light in a World of Darkness
Another day of babysitting...IT WAS GREAT!!! I had a little soul revitalization tonight. Usually, I try to keep the kids occupied with mind numbing television shows or playstation games. Not tonight. I ran Jacob some bath water then went in the living room to braid Cathlene's hair for her. I had my hair braided when I came over and I guess she thought it was the ultimate in cool.
So, I sit for a while forming tiny little braids all over this tiny little head and I start to ponder the fact that I'm enjoying this a little too much. I'd get up every so often and check on Jacob, then return to my tedious task. I just want to throw it out there that these are not the most enjoyable kids. In fact, I usually can't stand them. But I realized that when I gave more of myself, they let me have a little more of their love. Being selfless brings so much more joy than simply pleasing myself.
So, I finished with Cathlene's hair and returned to the bathroom. Jacob had let all the water out of the tub without washing his hair or his body. I just laughed, which was a little odd because I normally would have blown up. There's a country song that came out recently by Darryl Worley (correct me if I'm wrong--- not a big country fan) entitled, "Little Moments Like This". It's about when people screw up we love them more in those little moments than any other time because we're reminded of grace. I hummed that song as I filled up a little cup with water and proceded to wash Jacob's hair while he warmed his little toes under the running water.
I told Cathlene to go check out her hair, and she ran out of the bathroom and exclaimed, "Would you believe it? I LOVE IT!!!" Haha, gratitude is so nice. Hugs from children are even better, and I got two tonight. I read Cathlene one of her books while I tryed to make Jacob settle down and go to sleep. This was the most peacful night I've had in a long time.
So then, Debbie, their mother, gets home from her counseling appointment and pays me. I get paid 5 dollars an hour ususally, but she normally gives me a little extra. I babysat for only 2 hours tonight, and she wrote me a 50 dollar check!!! Tenille had told her that I'm saving for my trip to Tennessee to see my loved ones over Spring Break. How blessed am I???
And, as for those two little heathen children....well, we'll just say they're a blessing IN DISGUISE!!!
Trinitie