Sometimes I dream about going back in time and re-living my newlywed, pre-kid days. Part of me feels bad for saying that, but it’s the truth.

Things were soooooo much simpler back then.

No tantrums. No talking back. No screaming. No refusing to stay in timeout, or eat dinner, or go to sleep when it’s bedtime.

No parenting. Just living.

Oh yes, what a simpler season of life it was… but what a more JOYFUL season of life this is.

Sure, I could go without the flailing arms and dramatic screams every single time she doesn’t get her way. And sure, I wish my patience wasn’t tested literally every single minute my daughter is awake…

But you want to know the cold, hard, humbling truth of these feelings? It’s exactly the point.

Parenting isn’t for the faint of heart, but God knew that when He called me into motherhood. He knew the challenges I would face and the lessons I would learn. He knew the hardships and the heart work He was going to do. He knew it would be a daily decision to discipline with grace, and that I would need His help like I need air to breathe.

He knew.

He knew what I’d struggle through today, and He knows what I’ll be battling tomorrow. He knows it all, and He’s gently holding every detail of this whirlwind of raising tiny humans.

And when the chaos of the day is behind me and I settle into the quietness of the night, you know what?
I wouldn’t change a thing.

Oh goodness gracious was life so much easier before. But the joy and the love and the kisses and the laughs and the hugs and the accomplishment and pride of parenting my little miracle… yep.
I’d choose it over simplicity any day.

---