In the busy-ness of life, our joy is too often the first thing to go. “Recapturing Joy” is a series about holding on to joy before it disappears – and getting it back if it’s already gone!
I spent the entire first two years of my son’s life dreading the ‘terrible two’s.’
Excuse me, that’s not accurate.
I think I actually started dreading them shortly after I found out I was pregnant. Right after I stopped dreading the actual birthing process.
As soon as Conlan turned 2 I was thrilled to realize I loved it. It was so exciting, so engaging, so fun! When I started to share my enthusiasm with people, I was shocked to consistently hear, ‘Oh, yeah…two is good. Three is awful!’
Oh, boy. Another year of dreading the next stage. Awesome.
Then I realized that was EXACTLY what was happening. I was spending so much time dreading the horrid things to come that it took away some of my ability to be completely present and joyful in today.
Pregnancy is so uncomfortable.
Labor is awful.
You’ll be so exhausted.
Teething turns your little one into a monster.
Once they’re mobile, it’s all over.
Wait until you hit the Terrible Two’s.
Nope, that’s a myth. Wait until you see what three brings.
Just wait until they’re teenagers.
You get the idea. Yes, some days are difficult. Some seasons present more challenges than others. Still, none have completely lived up to their awful reputation and I’m hopeful that all of the ones to come will have joyous moments that will outweigh the difficult ones.
So just smile and nod when you hear of the things to come. There’s nothing to be gained by worrying about the trials of tomorrow. But there is a lot to lose. Your joy for today.
Just stop listening.
