By Traci Runge 
Growing up I never thought I wanted to be a mother. I didn’t like to babysit for friends or neighbors, I hadn’t ever changed a baby’s diaper until I was nearly 20 years old. How fortunate for me that I wasn’t the maker of plans.
“I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,“plans to prosper you and not harm you,plans to give you hope and a future.”
– Jeremiah 29:11
Looking back I cannot imagine my life without my children. They are certainly not the only source of joy in my life, but God has taught me a great deal through the trials and tribulations of motherhood. It’s remarkable to me how it is much easier to make positive choices in our lives for the better of others, than it is for our own good.
“We should never permit ourselves to do anything we are not willing to see our children do. We should set them an example that we wish them to imitate.” – Brigham Young
Being a parent is a remarkable responsibility, but it is a far greater blessing than burden. Having a front row seat to the discovery, the triumphs, the lessons, the gifts that our children will experience is better than ANY victory we could achieve for ourselves. Having a hand in sending another human being out into the world to make a positive difference is inspiring!
“I believe the choice to become a mother is the choice to become one of the greatest spiritual teachers there is.” – Oprah
Parenting isn’t accidental, it must be done with purpose. It isn’t something that we are instantly good at, and parenting every child requires different talents and techniques. The expectations and consequences are the same or very similar, but how we teach them may differ. Some children are born pleasers and they will almost always put their best foot forward, others may challenge you even when they don’t doubt the lesson being taught. The key is to parent on purpose, not just call it a good day if they are fed and alive at sundown. Use each day as if their life depended on it, because it does! The amount of effort you put into your children has a direct correlation on how much they will have to offer the world!
“Whenever I held my newborn baby in my arms, I used to think that what I said and did to him could have an influence not only on him but on all whom he met, not only for a day a month or a year, but for all eternity.” – Rose Kennedy
Each year on Mother’s Day, I find myself overwhelmed with Gratitude. God has given me so much. Being a mother has brought to me tremendous blessings and through mothering, God has molded me into a better person than I would have been without the journey. I took some time this week to look back through pictures, previous posts, gifts and cards from my children and I was reminded of how VERY great being a mother is. It’s a difficult job, there is NO doubt about it, but the benefits FAR out way the challenges!
I know without a doubt that my faith is stronger for having shared it with these little beings and I cherish every lesson, hurt, challenge, triumph and beautiful step along the way. I am blessed to have an AWESOME partner in life, my husband and best friend makes me a better mother, friend, Christian, and woman. Darby, you have allowed me to see myself through YOUR eyes and your love has made me bloom! Thank you Taylor, Liam, Payton, Caden, Jackson and Darby Jr for ALL you have brought to my life! My prayer for each of you is that you will first and foremost keep your faith and that no matter what life throws your way, you will know beyond the shadow of a doubt that you are loved deeply and unconditionally!
Blessings and Happy Mother’s Day!
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