Being a parent is, without question, one of the hardest jobs in the world. There are no days off, no vacations, and it’s never really about you—it’s always about them. You don’t get paid, but the reward is something far greater. It’s a calling, a blessing, and a privilege given by God, and it should never be taken for granted.
This morning, on the drive to school, I asked my kids a simple but powerful question: “Who would you want to be like? And who wouldn’t you want to be like?” I asked because I want them to understand the difference between character and chaos, between someone who inspires and someone who’s lost their way. Korbin gave thoughtful answers—one ballplayer he admires for his work ethic and integrity, and another he never wants to be like because of his choices involving drugs and abuse. That awareness made me so proud. He’s paying attention.
Then I asked Elsie, “Who do you want to be like?” And her answer brought tears to my eyes. She looked at me and said, “Mom, I want to be like you.” She told me she sees my strength, how I’ve overcome hard times, how I help others and take care of our needs along with your family's needs, you're always there for all of us.
She sees that even when I get upset, I apologize and try again. She sees the athlete in me, the Ironman who keeps going even when hurt. She sees that I turn negatives into positives and use every struggle as a way to lift someone else up. She says I want to be like that.
And that moment? It filled my heart in a way I can’t describe. Because as parents, we hope—we hope—that we’re leading our kids in the right direction. That we’re giving them something to believe in, someone to look up to. It’s not to say their dad doesn’t do the same—he absolutely does, and they love and admire him deeply. But when your child looks at you and says, “I want to be like you,” it confirms that maybe, just maybe, you’re doing something right.
Sometimes I question myself—as I/we carry the weight of everyone else, try to stay strong, stay positive, keep giving, even when we feel like we’re running on empty. But moments like this remind me that God sees all. He works through the quiet, through the chaos, and through our kids.
I’ve loved being a mother since I was 17. I’ve loved helping raise my siblings since I was 18. And today, I’m grateful. I’m proud as my heart is full.
I pray that if you're reading this you will also have that feeling someday too!!
I send messages to Korbin every morning today was "Belief comes before ability- because the mind must go there before the body follows" Love you buddy...
