by Kim Avery
I’m getting the carpets in my son’s room cleaned this week. So, yesterday to ensure that I did a thorough job I had Jonathan and his friends haul every stick of furniture out of his bedroom and into the garage. They set it up in a very homey way. I like it. Hmmm, I wonder if he would be willing to move out there?
Back in the house, it’s gross. Sorry to be so crude but there is no other word for this room’s sad state of affairs. Riddled with spots and stains, dirt and traffic patterns, and innumerable unidentified spilled objects, his naked carpet gives testimony that I have not been a good mom.
Oh, I’ve tried to teach him to keep it clean. More than once, I’ve laid out the rules loud and clear. No food. No drinks. No muddy shoes. No pets left locked in and unattended. I’ve said ‘no’ a million times except for all the times I’ve said ‘yes.’
“Yes, you and Chris can have pizza in there, but just this one time.” “Oh okay, soda will be fine.” “A drum set? Sure, why not?” “Of course, the dog can sleep in there with you to keep you company.” “Yes, yes, yes.”
But right this minute, as I stand here today and survey the mess, my heart only sees the happy memories that were lived out on this floor. I smile. I love this man-child!
Jonathan’s carpet reminds me of all the times that God has said ‘yes’ to me. “Yes, Kim, I’ll let you teach my ladies in Bible study.” “Oh okay, publish that blog.” “You want to go on a mission trip to a place where there aren’t any toilets??? Sure, why not?” “Yes, I’ll send someone to be your friend.” “Yes, yes, yes.”
And I can honestly say I’ve made a mess each and every time. I’ve taught poorly, written incoherently, and lived selfishly. Life, real life, is messy.
So, as God stands today and surveys the pitiful results of my service to Him, I see Him smile. And His tender whisper floats in on the wind, “I love this daughter of mine!” And in the end, that’s all that counts.
Tags: *Kim Avery, family, love
What a beautiful post, Kim. I loved it, thank you.
Kim, I loved your post. However, I beg to differ with one small point: the part where you said, “I’ve taught poorly.” Unless this was way before I knew you… I disagree wholeheartedly!
Love,
Heather
If that’s what you get out of dirty carpets, I can’t wait to read what you come up with next! Awesome, Kim! xoxo
Hi Beth,
Thanks for stopping by. I am so glad you can see the beauty in all the filth. You have grace-filled eyes.
Heather,
Thanks for the encouragement regarding parenting - parenting is such a ‘work-in-progress’ sometimes. I need all the encouragement that I can get.
.
Hi Melody,
Isn’t it cool that God is everywhere, even in dirty carpets?
Blessings to you all. Thanks for leaving a note. I love that!!
Kim