A little while back, I had the chance to go away by myself for three whole days to speak at a conference for teenagers. It was a completely new experience! Rarely do I get on an airplane without a bag of toys, drive a rental car without a carseat in the back, eat at a restaurant without ordering a kid’s meal, or stay in a hotel where I can get some uninterrupted sleep! Ahh…three days of paradise (or so I thought).
Having a chance to take on a new adventure does something for the soul, and I am so grateful that my husband was willing to take on our four children by himself so I could have this opportunity. I’m glad I went–not because I wanted to be away from my family, but because I appreciate them so much more now that I am home.
At the conference, I wondered if I was really needed. Hopefully, I contributed some value while I was there, but what I love about home is that I NEVER wonder if I am really needed. It is painfully obvious every minute of the day that someone needs me right now!
When my speaking assignment was finished on the last day, I quietly packed up my things and walked out to the parking lot without a word. At home, everyone notices when I leave. “Why are you wearing lipstick, Mommy?” “Why are you holding your car keys?” “What time are you going to come home?” I never leave the house without at least twelve kisses, several hugs, a plea to stay home just a little longer, or maybe even a little sticker to put on my shirt.
The world is a pretty nice place, I must say. People are generally courteous, friendly, helpful, and caring, but nothing compares to the love a mommy gets in her home. When I pulled up to my home after my trip, this is what I saw on the door:
They’re all “Welcome Home” signs, in case you can’t read them very well. My eyes welled up with tears, relief washed through my whole body, and I FINALLY understood what my mom has been telling me all along: You can look everywhere else for happiness, but you’ll find it right in your own backyard.
QUESTION: How many times have you wondered if you were important to those you love the most?
CHALLENGE: Take time this week to notice when your family shows their appreciation for you and acknowledge it!
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Image by Michelle Meiklejohn /FreeDigitalPhotos.net
