Parenting

Watching some of the guests on Oprah's shows definitely gives me a new perspective on how blessed I am. I have struggled with parenting at times like a lot of mothers and no matter how stressed out I may be with my children ( especially during the summer months) there is always someone who has it much worse.  Oprah visited Jani a seven year old schizophrenic at her home.  Her parents live in two separate apartments so that she doesn't harm her younger brother.  She has tried to commit suicide and has hallucinations all the time.  As a baby she never slept for more than twenty minutes at a time and more than four hours in a day.  I know how I feel when I haven't had a good nights sleep and I can't even fathom being permanently sleep deprived.  Jani's parents are a true testament to how hard parenting can be.  They have had their low points in their marriage and are both on anti-depressants.  My current struggles have to do with getting my kids to remember to brush their teeth and put their clothes away.  If Jani's parents can find the joy in raising her and appreciate the good moments, I should be able to focus on the many precious moments I have with my children and not the one's where their arguing.  Unfortunately, this is easier said than done at times.  I guess that's where positive thinking comes into play and a little summer cocktail never hurts either.