Reflections on Grace

For me, every hour is grace, and I feel gratitude in my heart each time I can meet someone and look at his or her smile – Elie Wiesel

I do not understand the mystery of grace – only that it meets us where we are but does not leave us where it found us –  Anne Lamott

Grace is defined as the free and unmerited or unexpected gift from God (Spirit). It’s a wonderful concept, something that comes to us completely without having to put effort in, an unexpected and wonderful surprise.

As parents, we may experience many moments of grace with our children, those small moments of bonding and connection that come when you least expect it. Your eyes are open to see your child’s unique gifts and talents; you celebrate along with them their moments of success or triumph over their personal challenges; you feel that overwhelming sensation of pure love as you snuggle together and read a bedtime story.

As parenting partners, you are rescued from a really horrible, challenging day as your partner arrives with take-out dinner, or an offer to take the kids out to play so you can sink into a tub and relax for just a little while.
How do children experience moments of grace from us? It can be when we are able to find just a bit more patience; when we can take a more humble perspective in our parenting role; when we step out of time and get to appreciate our children for who they are and not what we wish they could be.

Imagine being a child and having a ‘break the rules’ moment, when parents let us stay in our pajamas all day and have breakfast for dinner; when parents allow a ‘legal’ skip day from school; when the routine is lifted and everyone piles in the car for an impromptu adventure to the ocean or the woods. They are often the moments that stay with us and make childhood memories that become a part of who we are as a family.
How have you experienced moments of grace with your children?

Lorraine – Religious Education Director