Seeing Yourself Through the Eyes of Another

Today has been a day of regret for me. It's been filled with miscommunication, death, and illness. I've seen the pain of so many people and been helpless to do anything. Just one of those days where the evening quiet sets in and you look around at all there is yet to do in disbelief. These are the times where I question if I am good at anything...Will I ever be the person I wish to be?

I've been quietly wrapping up my day when I looked through my son's backpack at his schoolwork. What I found could not have come at a better time for me, and makes me so grateful for what I do have I was brought to tears. I'd like to share.

There was a packet of work that had examples of letter writing, and spaces for the kids to practice different aspects of a formal letter. On the last page were sample questions, and then a blank sheet of lined paper for the child to write his own letter. This is what I found:

Think of an adult you know. Is there an award you think he or she should win? Use the Questionnaire below to plan a letter recommending this person for the award.

1. Whom will you write about? Amanda Mendenhall
2. What kind of award should this person win? Best Parent Award
3. What does your favorite person do that is so great? My mom helps me with a lot of stuff.
4. Give a specific example of a time when your favorite person helped others. My mom helped my friends when they need CPR. (I'm not exactly sure what he meant by this. I have helped certify people we know in CPR training, but I've never revived one of Zeke's friends).
5. Write a sentence that tells three things about what your favorite person looks like. She has I can't read his writing..., tan, blue eyes. (I'm am SO not tan...)
6. What else would you say about this person? She is super friendly.

The letter was then composed to the Mayor at City Hall. This is how it read:

Dear Sir or Madam:

I hope you will give an award. Amanda should earn this award. I think the Parenting Award. She gets this award because she helps us alot with our homework. I think it would be a good choice.

Sincerely,

Zeke Mendenhall

I had to stop for a moment and see myself through the eyes of my child. Not as the failure I oftentimes feel like when I just can't seem to make things work, or easier for other people, but as a person worthy of an award. It just made me feel so great, and yet so embarrassed that I cannot see my own worth.

I think it is important for us to realize that we are all here for a reason and with a purpose. It is imperative that we make the most of our time, and we are giving, loving, and learning. Some days are harder than others, but we need to focus on the GOOD, instead of the missed opportunities.

Thank you my dear, dear Zeke.