There were times in my life when I didn’t do so well
Especially with my little ones I am ashamed to tell
I seemed to be preoccupied with one thing or another
Couldn’t seem to get around to being a proper mother.
But then again, perhaps it was, I didn’t quite know how
To meet the children’s needs or that, they needed meeting now
Plans were often deftly made with purpose and efficiency
But then any hint of hardship, exposed my inconsistency.
The children now grow up and I examine their young lives
To see if beyond the damage done some evidence survives
Do they have a sense of confidence, significance and wholeness,
Or have their hearts been wounded and left lying in a mess?
Do they know they are worthwhile, just as they’ve been created,
Or will they in distant, future years feel that they have been cheated?
Are their gaps in their foundations, are they flawed and full of faults?
Or will they feel abandoned and need help when they’re adults?
Just what does it mean to nurture, does the dictionary say,
The importance that it needs to play in children’s lives each day?
So many definitions I have come across of late
To establish their foundation, yet let them control the gate
Protect and build and strengthen, encourage as it fits
Be available, approachable, lift up their hearts and spirits.
Now the most important thing I should not forget to mention,
Is to be there for them daily, giving time and close attention.
Now what does all this mean today, with regret as I look back
And see many times and places where I did sorely lack?
I want to make a difference in the lives of my two teens
Help strengthen their foundations, tune in to Satan’s schemes.
I realize they are free to make their very own life choices
Yet I want to be involved in teaching to discern the voices
Thank God, it’s not too late to work toward the proper goal
As I slowly start to fill some gaps in my parental role.
God, you’ve granted me forgiveness, in those places where I’ve failed
Would you, dear Lord, fill in the gaps where I just up and bailed?
Your Word tells how You looked for one, to stand and fill the gap
And protect the land You gave them, from sin and foe attack
To defend it and to build it up, to strengthen every wall
When no one could be found to stand, it was surely doomed to fall.
Lord, I want to be the parent, that the girls You gave me need
Help me encourage and stand by them, in every way You lead.
Written June 1994
Copyright © 2021 by Terri Art