If I could tell every mother.... (10 things I'm learning while grieving with my children)

1. Never EVER lie to your children in any way.
2. Accept that sometimes you can only hold them and listen, and you won't have the answers, only questions too.
3. Boys are not girls. Sometimes when they are acting up, they are BEGGING to be grabbed up and held as tight as you can. They show their needs not by talking, but by acting.
4. Children who have been exposed to the harder realities of life in a gentle way are very resilient, very wise, and very capable. Trust them that they know what they need to do or say.
5. Jesus is the Good Shepherd. Look for his guiding hand in all places.
6. "His Word I have hidden in my heart...." Whatever bible verses you have memorized will help you in times when you need them most. Memorize scripture.
7. AND POETRY! Memorize poetry and hymns.... you will be glad you have these stored in your family's hearts and minds for times when you can't find words to speak.
8. Build up a close relationship with your children when you can, so that when you NEED to turn only to one another, you can. Never miss an opportunity to build a relationship with each of your children. Not one.
9. Your relationship is never one sided, although it may feel like it in the younger years at times. When you most need a hug, even a baby can tell, and can give you a hug that means more than most things.
10. Charlotte Mason is right on: "Education is a discipline, an atmosphere, and a life."