Refuse to compare your weaknesses with someone else’s strengths.
You might find yourself comparing your parenting with your friends’ or with the perfect Christian couple at church. Then again, they might be doing the same with you! Guilt can also come from the very resources we turn to for help.
“I feel most parenting books give unrealistic steps that promise perfection, if only I’ll follow their exact formula,” says Amy Wallace, mother of three. “I’ve realized I won’t hit ‘perfect’ this side of heaven.”
To ax the guilt, realize parenting books and articles are simply tools and suggestions. Pick and choose what will work for you, and toss the rest.
Thanks for this freedom from guilt. My children are all grown but this could apply to anything as well as raising children. In regard to parenting, we all need to realize the same rule or formula does not apply to any two children, even within the same household. Especially within the same household. No wonder there are so many books out there with suggestions to try. One thing is clear in scripture: do not spare the rod or you spoil the child. This is one book we do need to follow the guidelines to see the best results.
Great thoughts!
You’re never going to agree 100% with what anyone says, but you can find wisdom and value in what almost anyone says.
Thanks!
Thanks for this great reminder, Tricia! It’s a timely one.
Even though I know I won’t hit perfect this side of heaven, I still sometimes try and then compare the results to others around me. So it’s good to hear again that won’t work. And I don’t have to let the guilt keep me in that try harder, fail more cycle.
Thank you!