The Warden Vs. The Leader

I took my kids to the local swimming hole yesterday afternoon.

There were two families at the pit, both quite distinct from the other.
In both families, the kids were having a great time together. They were splashing and playing with each other in the water. The difference came in the behavior and attitude of the mother.

The first woman was quite stern. She would stand on the dock overlooking her kids. Her posture was distinctly 'warden' like and she just kept barking orders at the kids. She would eventually sit with her feet in the water but kept warning the kids to stop splashing...pay attention...stop this....stop that.

It appeared as though she was genuinely trying to correct her kids of their behavior. She was not being 'mean'...she was just so cranky and nit picky. She was right onto her kids, not allowing them to just be well...kids. She never once seemed to enjoy the fact that she was hanging out at the beach with her kids....and she never once interacted and had any 'fun' with them.

The second woman came in with her five kids. She watched as they all ran down the dock and jumped in. Then she took off her dress and ran in after them doing a cartwheel into the water. She swam and laughed with them. She enjoyed swimming with her kids as they cooled off. Then after 10-15 minutes or so she got out, and sat on the side and did some paper work. She never yelled at the kids. She just kept a keen eye on them and let them be well...kids. She set a great tone with her attitude and playfulness. By doing so I believe she was showing them that they are valuable to her and worth her time.....She was a Leader.

What was so striking to me was how the second mom really seemed to be happier. To be ENJOYING her kids. The other mom seemed as though her children are more of a burden to her day.

The second woman looked more like a LEADER and Guide for her children. She set a great example for me and reminded me that it is MY ATTITUDE that has the most effect on my kids. The First mom also reminded me what I look like sometimes when I am playing more of a Warden role....and I did not like what I saw.

I strive daily for that balance. I mean let's be honest here...Some situations call for the Warden to come out, and unfortunately some days seem like the Warden is never able to take a break. I just pray that I remember to let go and have some fun more often than not.

Thank you Lord for showing me that today in very practical example. I need to Lead my children and be the woman that I want my children to become :)

Have you laughed with your kids today?