Be Calm and Carry On

We got up late. I forgot that we were having company for lunch. When I did remember I realized I was still in my pajamas and needed a shower. Then I remembered what I was going to make wasn't what I originally promised them. No one had finished their chores. School hadn't even been started. The clock said 10:30 and they were suppose to be there in less than an hour.

My temperature was rising quickly and attitudes were getting out of control. Everyday I promise myself I will do better. Everyday I pray the Lord will hold my tongue. I started yelling. I started stomping and throwing things. I also started behaving like my toddler.

Then, while standing at the counter slinging oatmeal into bowls, I felt the Lord tell me to Be Calm. I took a deep breathe and calmly finished breakfast. Then the 15yo let me know that he didn't think my instructions on writing were any good and he would do it his way. Oh boy did the words start to flow. Right before the words came out I felt again like He was saying Be Calm and rest in Me. So instead of my usual tactics that very seldom bring the results I would like I told him that was fine, but the day the paper was to be finished he would sit at the table until he was done with absolutely no complaining. He took his books and left. Normally he stands there and argues with me and it escalates into some serious consequences for him. This time was less stress for me and I was able to calmly help the 9yo with her long division.

I know this isn't a permanent fix, but the road to a change in my attitude and hopefully that will carry over to the kids and their behavior. I always need to remember to open mouth after praying instead of opening mouth and chewing on shoe leather.