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Cecily and I were just enjoying some play time while big sister has a early much needed nap and I was struck once again by a thought that I have every so often. How blessed I am when my children look into my eyes. The prolonged gaze of a small baby suckling, the happy glance of a smiling child, the mutinous or repentant (depending where we are in the situation) look of a determined 2 1/2 year old. They all are part of forming a connection, a bond. That early gaze was crucial to drawing my little girls into my heart, the happy glance to continue the journey of enjoying my children, the mutinous or repentant look establishing a relationship of consistency, love and discipline. I will never forget working with parents who longed to have that with their little ones, who struggled daily to make connections without that and where even a brief glance was a call for celebration.
Today as I looked into Cecily’s beautiful blues, I was overwhelmed with love once again and I realized that I want to make the most of that blessing. I often tell Aneliese to look into my eyes when I have an instruction to give her or when I want obedience. I know that when we are actually focusing and looking at each other, discipline becomes an act of love. I want make sure that I also have them look into my eyes when I express my love for them or their value. That I allow them to see my heart when they look into my eyes; my heart that loves them deeply and believes in them and who they will become. That they will see my joy in being their mama.
Kmarie said:
This post is touching. Especially since having a child with AS we have to “teach” eye contact. I am continually guiding the cheek up and saying “Please look at me.”
Eye contact really is beautiful. It’s nice to know many don’t take it for granted…the beauty of soul windows.
Dea' said:
Oh Miss’, I needed to read this today…but I also wish I hadn’t. I just had such an episode of frustration with Jem. Our eyes met, but mine were wide and angry and his were full of tears 😦 I hate hate hate those moments when I see my own failure mirroed in his gaze. This post is both encouragement and challenge. Thanks… 🙂
thismama said:
I hear you Dea, I have more of those times in my memory than I would like. I am ashamed of that, but then I also remember the times of where I have looked into my girl’s eyes and sorrowfully asked for her forgiveness and she has readily given it.