A Parent looks at Fifty!(Stolen from Jimmy Buffet)

So here I am, a fifty year old woman with a husband,4 kids,a smelly dog and an abundant life. How did I get to this place and what have I learned?
First, I got here because somebody else invested in my life. Someone believed in me,encouraged me to be better,try harder and have faith in God. That is the balance that keeps me sane and healthy. Doing my best and leaving the rest to Him. It's why I sleep so well at night no matter what is happening around me.
Second, I have learned to listen to that still,small voice that whispers when the rest of the world is screaming instructions at me. You have to be still and quiet yourself in order to hear The Holy Spirit. Sometimes He speaks words of comfort or affirmation. Other times, I hear statements about my behavior that need attention or commands or instruction. I not only listen but I obey or take the time to deal with these areas that His light shines on. This brings order and peace in to my life so I can end each day with no regrets.
And last but not least, I have learned to have HOPE! In the past fifty years I have lived through many heartaches and tragedies from my own personal suffering to the suffering of family members and loved ones. I have seen our world in such sorrow over natural disasters and attacks from heartless enemies. The media has made sure we never miss one minute of the bad news but PTL I also hear the GOOD NEWS! God's amazing outpouring of love comes shining through when others are hurting. Jesus,with skin on shows up in so many people to help lift up those who are down. God is faithful,even when we are not. When things are hard,my favorite saying is,"This too,shall pass!" His word says that sorrow may be in the evening,but JOY will come in the morning!
As a parent....these are the most important things I can teach my children. May they learn them long before they turn 50! I will pray that you and yours will ponder these truths. In Him,denise