From the archives….a lesson that I need to be reminded of continually.
I failed.
My answer to her question was laced with impatience and – worse yet – unkind. It didn’t matter that the query had been asked and answered several times already that day – she didn’t deserve my sharp response.
She took it in stride, moving on with that which occupied her, no follow-up statements forthcoming.
My conscience was immediately stricken, guilt filling my heart as I was smote with the realization of how my words must have sounded to her.
I knew what I needed to do. Allowing myself a moment to gather my thoughts – and her to finish what she was doing – I approached. My first words were, “I’m sorry for speaking to you that way. Will you please forgive me?” With the love and openness that only a child’s face can portray, she looked up at me. “Yes,” she said, both arms going around my waist in a hug.
Do I wish I hadn’t spoken so harshly? Yes. Is it humbling to apologize to anyone, your own child included? Yes. But I’m thankful for the reminder of what it feels like to ask for forgiveness – and how quickly and readily it is given by a child.
Like my daughter, may I willingly and graciously offer the gift of forgiveness to others.
AMEN!!!
I'm so glad that I'm not the only one who has to apologize to her children. I feel like I do it everyday for the same reason: speaking unkindly to my children. Thank you for being honest and real with us, and therefore encouraging us.
Humbling indeed when we have to apologize, especially to our children. And a good reminder to keep our hearts tender and open to forgiveness, both in giving it and asking for it.