Sneaky Pride

I love that having more than a couple children gives me so much more perspective, especially as the years whiz by. But I am still tempted by sneaky pride and I think Sammy is helping me overcome that. I had been spoiled by Barbara and Jimmy in some ways b/c they have been so advanced in academics, and have always been "ahead" in a lot of things since they were babies. It can be easy to develop a swelled head as a parent and think it's all your own doing- the nice enriched environment you provided, all the purposeful interactions and connections you helped them make... But then God steps in and says "Hey! Want to give a little credit where it's due? Want to get your priorities straight?" and he sends you a third child. A wonderful, happy lovable child, who has his own timetable to unfold in. He is content to do things slower, to walk later, to talk later. He doesn't know his entire alphabet by two years old. He calls all letters "s, o, m , p or t" indescriminately. He calls colors by the wrong name. When he counts, everything is "two, two, TWO!" He doesn't care, he has fun with his life, and he is delightful! At least he is interested! But silly, prideful me still gets defensive, because people who don't know all my kids might think he's not smart. People might judge ME and they might not think I'm doing a good job! They don't know that I used to be the one with the child prodigy! HA- I just have to laugh at myself when I realize how prideful I can be. (And I am embarrassed to even admit to having these thoughts!) I thank God for giving me a wonderful sweet happy boy to help teach me patience, humility and JOY in just being. It is a much needed lesson and I have a lot to learn! I love you so much Sammy!!