I went to Target today cause I wanted to get snacks for the kiddos. I always get something for them, and during this time of year, at least once a week I get them ice cream, or whatever they like. They deserve it with working so hard. So I walk in the candy section and the joy I see. Still hundreds of Easter candy all 75% off. So, I got their favorites, and lots of my favorites. Wooo, to bags of peanut M&M, Milk Chocolate Dove, and Twix, for less then a dollar.
But, then I get to work. And hear that my boys had a rough day. Something I never expected. They ripped half the books in the library. I was shocked. SHOCKED! So, we had circle time, and talked about it.
Me: I want to know what happened?
M: R told me to rip the books, so I did it.
Me: Why did you listen to him?
M: Because he is my friend.
Me: I understand. I understand that when your friends ask you to do something you want to make them happy and you want to follow them so that they know you care about them. I see why you did it, but you do you think it was the right thing to do?
M: No.
Me: Why?
M: I shouldn't listen to the bad things, but the good things.
Me: How do you know when something is right or wrong?
A (who was also a part of the mischief): Sometimes, God says, "thats not okay." AND yeah you have to listen to him.
Me: You know, I like that. I like that you know in your heart when something is right or wrong. Our friends can always lead us to good and bad choices, but we need to make the right ones. And when you know something is wrong, you need to love your friend enough to say, "NO. I wont do it. I wont let you and I wont either."
These few weeks, they have been SOOO exhausting. I mean so much hitting, so much hurting, soooo much of everything. I know its like this around this time of year cause their bodies are growing and they are pushing their own limits. I am patient, and more patient, and times, where I just want to shut down and wish I did not have to worry or think about anything else in my life, so that I can just help them. Drop everything and help them. I don't know what to do sometimes. I just don't know. Sometimes, it takes a while to figure it out, to understand what's going on, why things are happening. Thankfully, more times then not, I get it, and once I do....things seem to turn out alright. I hope I get it this time around too.