Parenthood - A paradox of joy and suffering all in one.
Yesterday, during a church sermon, it dawned unto me that like most things, when you need to be able to find joy in suffering. I can really identify with this because although I love being a parent, I do find it very stressful on some days, unbearable even. However, I would never trade in my children for anything else in the world. So, I was thinking, perhaps being a parent has its similarity in the fact that we must find joy of being a parent, in all the sacrifices that we make. What sacrifices?
Here’s a few a could think off.
1. Ever wondered how anyone could maintain a tight firm body while having kids? Not happening. Things are looking more south than ever? Yup. Muscles becoming a bit too jiggly for your liking? Yup. The reality is that unless you don’t take care of the children and have nannies sticking out of your ears. Let’s face it, gym days are over for a while. No body jam, body combat or not reps of anything. - The most you could do is sacrifice the chocolates to maintain body weight and not put on too much
2. When was the last time, I went out with my friends for the night? or movie with my spouse?
3. Holidaying in some exotic place like Spain, Caribbeans, Turks and Caicos perhaps?
4. High flying career who takes you round the world.
5. Have a beautiful house that looks more like a holiday resort than a house.
No, I haven’t had any of the above since my first baby, but to reflect back, I wouldn’t call them sacrifice or suffering. On the surface yes, a fleeting moment when the children get on my nerves but at the end, its not really suffering. Its JOY. that’s when it all clicks.
For more parenting tips
