Today I quit my job.
It was one of those days. The challenges of parenting a special needs child were front and center as I dealt with melt down after melt down. I was already tired and the stress of dealing with my daughter’s out of control behavior just put me right over the edge.
So I quit.
I Left the Office.
I had the sense to step away, go in my room and close the door. Taking a moment alone helped me to calm down and think clearly.
I Talked To The Boss
While in my room I began to pray. I asked God for peace for my child and for me, and then I asked Him to give me grace to deal with my daughter in a godly way.
I Made A Conference Call.
Thankfully I have a couple of friends who are godly women, so I contacted one of them and we had a three-way “conference call” as the two of us prayed together and listened to what God had to say.
I Communicated With My Co-Worker
I called my daughter into my room and gave her a big hug. Honestly the last thing I want to do when my child is acting out is to give her a hug, but it’s probably the one thing that she needs. This quote is a good reminder:
I Took A Long Lunch Break
After I had a good snuggling session with my daughter I sent her to her room to read and I took a nap. The emotional exhaustion I felt from dealing with her meltdown faded away. When I woke up, I was ready to get back on the job and deal with whatever unfolded the rest of the day.
My friend Becky’s wise words today:
“God doesn’t call us to live a perfect life. He calls us to love those around us in the midst of imperfection.”
So even though I wanted to quit my imperfect job as a mom, I can’t. There is no one else who can take the position.
And actually, I’m glad.
{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
I had that kind of day, too. I wish I handled it more like you did. I pray everyday for God to show me how to be the kind of mother He wants me to be.
Believe me Susan, I have had plenty of days that I didn’t do the right thing. As long as you are praying to Him, you ARE the kind of mother He wants you to be!
Oh, my goodness…I got tears in my eyes reading this…I all too fully understand the feeling of wanting, sometimes needing to quit…but pulling yourself together for yourself and your child…because, ultimately no one can parent her better than you can.
God bless you and your daughter.
Thank you Karen!
As a grandmother & looking back, I know those days are no fun. Thanks for being so transparent. I know you will minister to lots of moms. Many of us were not so well connected in the “olden days” and felt very much alone in our struggles. You are modeling valuable life lessons to your daughter as well! Keep on keeping on. He is faithful!
Thanks Linda! My hope in writing is to encourage other moms. Thanks for the encouragement.
Thanks for sharing. I have 2 high needs adopted sons and one bio daughter. I’ve had those days and have them most mornings until one son’s meds click in. When I think I’ve had enough I look at the clock and realize we are almost there. The same at night, his little body has never lasted past 9pm even on the worst meltdowns. My job is to keep it together and help him and the others when he can’t do it himself. I often repeat to myself “and this too shall pass”. keep up the great work I enjoy your blog.
Thanks Carol! It’s like Dory says in the Nemo movie,”Just keep swimming!”.
Thanks for being such a good mom. I am so proud of you. I love you!!!
Thanks Mom!