I recently read a Facebook post on how a mother reassured her daughter of her unconditional love by reminding her of always having the choice to leave an uncomfortable situation.

As our son enters middle childhood, I realize that it’s becoming more and more challenging to simply command orders and expect him to just obey and follow. Most of the time, he will ask more than a couple of “why” – is the task needed? Is my way the best way to accomplish it? Is time of the essence or can it wait until later? I can’t say I’m surprised really because I’m exactly like him when I was a child, and I can imagine my parents at their wit’s end with my many questions and counter-arguments.

I have a confession to make. Every time I miss my monthly period, even if it’s just for a day, I already secretly hope that I’m pregnant (even if it’s not scientifically possible), and yes I even actually take a pregnancy test and start praying about it. But most of the time (like today), the minute I do, I start spotting, and it feels like God’s being too kind to me and just gives me a flat NO, before I get my hopes up any further.

As parents, I’m sure there is nothing we aspire and pray for more than our children’s good health and protection from danger.