One of our steadfast rules of parenting in our house
is to show our vulnerability and honest mistakes to our kids.
We are trying to lead with excellence, but not give the impression that we are perfect, that is not fair to them or to us.
I have been driving since I was sixteen years old, if you do the math that is 21 years behind the wheel.
I have been proud of my record of NEVER receiving a speeding ticket in 21 years, (I didn’t say I had never been pulled over, wink-wink!)
HOWEVER, yesterday (while working for the LORD, mind you) I was asked to pull over to the side of the road by our local Swazi traffic police.
Shame of all shame, in the presence of 5 of my children my 21 year record was broken, turns out I was going 82 km in a 65 km zone, who knew?
True to their personalities, Emilie and Tyler patted me on the back, full of grace, and said “it doesn’t count Mom; it didn’t go on your record”.
Caleb wanted to know how much it cost, Noah was unconcerned about any of it, and pretty much bored….and wanted to know when lunch was.
And then there is Michael Ryan, charming, funny, sarcastic Michael.
His smile was huge, “I’ll never let you live this down, Mom”…and he won’t.
Michael LOVES it when he has something to tease Gary or me about.
Another steadfast rule of parenting in our house is,
“your sin will find you out”….Michael was gracious to remind me of that as well.
Thank you Michael for being my “holy Spirit” and taking pictures of me holding my ticket so you could post it on the internet….
Oh, and Michael, don’t forget another household rule,
“HONOR YOUR MOTHER AND FATHER, SO YOUR LIFE MAY GO WELL WITH” YOU!
Love you madly son, you are my joy….thanks for keeping me accountable, you are a good man! I will try to be a better example in the future, but if not, I know you will help!
oh so funny, i remember my kids being that way and you brought back some great memories. your kids are fun and you took the whole deal very graciously as i know you to be if only through your blogs. you sure made me smile today. thank you for posting, its a great way to wake up and read something like this.
pam
Just had to see what you were up too. So, never say never is always my motto. The blessings of children to keep us humble. Ah yes, our Brittany still keeps me humble. Miss ya and love ya.
My “jailtime” in Heber for “dog at large” warrant before we left Utah still beats your ticket! At least my children didn’t see me getting my mugshot taken! We pray for you every night. Love to all!