The Mirror

As I was getting Olivia ready for school today, I started asking her to get ready.

"No mama, I'm too busy," she said looking down slightly.
"I have a project to do. I am making a kite." She busily continued on with her tape and paper, fully committed to finishing her project before school.

Now, I immediately recognized my own words, "I'm too busy".

While I always make time for Olivia, I do occasionally have to tell her that I am too busy to play with her right now.

I could handle this two ways, I thought.

I can force her to get ready right now. That's right, be in complete control and stop her busy important work so that she could put on her pretty dress and look nice and sweet for school. But wait, if I force her to stop there will be tears on her end and frustration on mine.

I decided to let Olivia be in control. I glanced at the clock, decided that it would be ok today if we did not put on the pretty dress. She could go to school in the shirt and pants she had been playing in all day. I gave her the time to finish her project.

Then we put a piggy tail in her hair, shoes and boots on her feet and off we went. No tears and no frustration.

I honored what I saw in the mirror.

I honored Olivia's reflection of me.

I honored that fact that sometimes we are just too busy to pay attention to someone who wants it.

I honored this with a feeling of pride growth and satisfaction.

I am glad that I respected Olivia's busyness.

Everyday is a blessing and a lesson and yes a look in the mirror whether you want to or not.

Blessings