Mrs. Farmer Jones blogs about winter, time, and its distractions
February is a major birthday month in our household. My daughter will be 17 in a few days, followed by my son, who will turn 15. Sometimes, when I look at them, a wave of panic sweeps over me: they’ll be on their own soon! Have we made the most of our time together?
We often blame work for the time it takes away from the family. However, parents have worked hard for generations. Getting food on the table takes hard work and time. A good work ethic is an incredible example to our kids about how to serve others. No, it’s not our time spent working.
We are losing the healthiest version of our families due to the time we spend distracted. Distractions disconnect us from our purpose and prevent us from embodying our most influential and powerful position: Parent!
The most damaging distraction comes from an enemy we carry around with us in our pockets. That thing incessantly dings, buzzes, and rings, vying for our attention, promising something more interesting than the face in front of us. It’s a tool turned tetrarch, dictating our moods and values.
As parents and as humans, we must fight the ease and lure of this digital age. The discipline it will require is more intense than avoiding carbs and sugar. I think the way back is to reconnect to the physical world around us as much as possible.
Let the sounds of our household be the noises we make when actually doing life together rather than watching it on a screen. Let our amusement be from the stories and laughter we share together around the table, face-to-face and shoulder-to-shoulder.
For our family, the fight began when we relocated and connected to land, nature, and the lessons found in growing food and nourishing hearts and bodies around a table. We trust you’re on your own journey, fighting for the family life you desire, too.
We pray right now that you never give up on each other or give in to anything that stands in the way.
My hope for my soon-to-be 17 and 15-year-olds is for them to understand how important it is to fight for their purpose, guard their time and attention, and live out the abundant life they were created to experience.
Until Next Time,