Accepting GRACE and Assistance When Offered

It is difficult to accept help when you have been able to do the job on your own. I struggle with simple tasks now and sometimes succumb to what my inner voice says, “You’re a failure!”.

There are days that I am unable to pull the skin from a chicken leg, lift a pan off the stovetop or out of the oven, turn fabric inside out or open the vacuum canister to empty the collected trash. I cannot hold a crochet or sewing needle properly. Some days it takes longer to get to the kitchen to fix the morning coffee or hold the cup.

Every morning my husband and children remind me to take it easy before they leave out for the day. Work 15-20 minutes then take a short break has become my daily routine. I have a set weekly routine to cleaning the house. This is the only way I can accomplish the needed cleaning. Each day is assigned to a specific room: Mondays- master bathroom, Tuesdays- master bedroom, Wednesdays- laundry and sunrooms, Thursdays- kitchen, and Fridays- living room. The family helps and are responsible for their rooms and bathrooms. And- they gladly help when asked.

But- being a homemaker is MY job and I love it! I enjoy having the house clean and tidy and supper on the table waiting for the crew to enjoy. I get satisfaction from seeing their faces every evening. They, too, face their own struggles working and attending schools, and I want to be their rock when they walk through the door.

But- the family is having to be my rock- my support. And- I thank GOD daily for giving me this family who understand that Mom and spouse cannot always have a room clean or tidy and supper on the table when they come home from a difficult day.

And- sometimes I have to accept grace and assistance when I cannot be fruitful.