Unity

It's funny how, if you give in, and let everyone be who they are, life is so much easier. I have tried so hard to manage my homeschool day in such a way that we are schedule oriented. I decided that was the best possible scenario for an ADHD child. But, ya know what? I have found that is NOT the best thing for MY child or ME.

One of the best perks of homeschooling in the first place is letting your child be who God created them to be. I should know that after 14 years of homeschooling, but I guess I have to be reminded every once in a while.

How many times have you caught yourself trying to re-invent someone close to you just so they would fit in with your own ideas of perfection? I admit I have done it quite often. Not really intentionally, but nevertheless, I have done it.

My youngest son is the total opposite personality from me. We are night and day; Oil and water. But, there is one thing we share; love and lots of it. That is enough common ground to work together.

In reality, my way is NOT always the best way. Even when it comes to my children. It is hard to admit to your child when you have messed up. But, they always accept your honesty with love and forgiveness. Mine do anyway. Try it. Yours probably will too.

These past few days have been a 180 degree turn from where we were a couple of weeks ago. All because I have stopped being so set in my ways and I have allowed my child to learn in a way that is comfortable to him. He has retained so much more information this way. It has been an enlightening experience for us both.

This approach works for every relationship in your life, not just homeschooling. Let your husband be himself. Let your parents be themselves. Let your best friend be herself. And, the best part of all, do NOT be afraid to be who YOU are. So much more can be accomplished when we all work together accepting each other's flaws and imperfections. As long as we have the same goal, we can co-exist cheerfully. We may just have different ways of getting there.

God places certain people in your life to compliment who you are. Let them do it. As Christians, we most likely have many common goals. We are here to support each other. To encourage each other. If you are having relationship woes, maybe you are falling short in one of those areas. Maybe your communication is lacking in openness and sincerity.

"But, I urge you and entreat you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you be in perfect harmony and full agreement in what you say, and that there be no dissensions or factions or divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in your common understanding and in your opinions and judgements."
(1 Corinthians 1:10 AMP)

"There is no room for and there can be neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, nor slave or free man; but Christ is all and is in all. Clothe yourselves therefore, as God's own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), who are purified and holy and well-loved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways and patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper]. " (Colossians 3:11-12 AMP)

Is your temper even? Has it flared lately? Do you have mercy on others, or are you quick to expect much and judge often?

God made each of us individually, just the way He desired. We are hand-sculpted by the Master Artist. Enjoy the creativity of the Father. Look at those around you as works of art and accept them as they are. Unity is wonderful and peace swiftly follows. Experience both today with those you love, as well as those who rub you the wrong way. That's God's will for His children!