Keep on loving

With Sam getting older, he is becoming more aware of the world, how life works, what people are talking about, etc. it is quite exciting to see his wheels turning and his little intellectual mind pump out logical responses and ideas. But with this  wonderful gift also has come a realization that he can do what he wants. Which is good. But it's difficult when he decides that he doesn't want to brush his teeth any more and no amount of playing or distraction or making it fun will work. He just doesn't want to brush them. I am at a new crossroads with him to enlarge our relationship, and strength our boundaries appropriately. This new expansion of personal choice and freedom has tested me further to my perceived limits and I have had to rely in a deeper way on the power of love in parenting and relationships. I am seeking a greater understanding of love and how it feels and looks and operates in new situations. When I am impatient and angered I see a wedge between my son and I. When I focus on the idea that I am not his superior, but his mentor to help him succeed then I find a much more trusting and directed little boy who wants to be good. Force and coercion are never the answer... Even when it is inconvenient to be patient, kind, loving, open, etc.  my prayer is that as my life continually changes with the seasons of childhood and family life that with each new challenge I will view it as an opportunity to choose love, prove love and come to know a deeper meaning of what love is. I find motherhood a perfect opportunity for me to experience these lessons on true love.