Yes, I decided to start a blog. I've been thinking about doing it for a long time now. Today just happened to be the day I sat down to do it. All I needed was a name. As I rocked my son, Hudson, to sleep this afternoon I began pondering what I would call my blog. Titles like "Taylor in Tucson" or "Taylor's Two Tots" sprang to mind. While the facts that I live in Tucson and am the mother of two children under 2 are true, they are not what ultimately define me. The only identity that truly matters is my identity in Christ. Everything I do I do for Him. And while I often disappoint myself and fail to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, I am constantly striving to bring Him glory.
My purpose is to allow God to work in me "to will and to act according to His good purpose" (Philippians 2:13). He gives me a will I don't have on my own. He gives me the strength, motivation, and drive to accomplish things I would never be able to do without Him. Would you like an example? One word: motherhood.
Being a mom is tough; a lot tougher than I ever thought it would be. It's one thing to babysit and it's another to be responsible for another human life 24 hours a day. The lack of sleep, the poopy diapers, the exclusive breastfeeding, the mess of food and filth that must be cleaned on a daily basis, the massive amount of additional laundry, the entertaining, the playing, the discipline -- it is truly exhausting. There is no such thing as a "weekend" as a full-time mom. It's the epitome of what a full-time job really is. When it first happened to me, I was overwhelmed. To go from a selfish, self-centered existence to a world where it wasn't all about me (not even a little bit) was, quite simply, hard! No matter how much I knew I wanted to be a good mother, I didn't see how I could. But eventually I figured it out. I remembered that "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength" (Phil. 4:13).
Because Christ lives in me I am capable of great things. My purpose in life is to serve Him, to do His will, His good purpose. I never have to question where I will get more energy to get more done. I must only ask what He wants me to do. He'll provide the rest.
Welcome to the blogging world, Taylor! :) I'm already so inspired by your first post. I can't wait to read more!
ReplyDeleteThat is so touching Taylor. It brought tears to my eyes. I can certainly identify with what you're saying. Motherhood is truly a gift. It is not easy but it's well worth while. So many treasures along the way to grow one's soul. Very inspiring words Taylor!
ReplyDeleteGreat title for your blog!
ReplyDeleteHoney,
ReplyDeleteI love you so much and I'm so proud of you for taking the time and making the effort to give glory to God through this forum. The only thing I disagree with on your blog is that I'm the awe-inspiring one. You are the one who amazes me daily by being such a great mom. I know the "tag team" of Hudson and Rowan can be quite a challenge; I don't pretend to understand how you handle it each and every day while I am away. Even while you were out for just an hour today and I was home alone with the kids, I found myself looking towards the door, silently wishing that you'd come home soon so I didn't have to deal with both kids crying and wanting to be held at the same time. Indeed, motherhood has triggered profound changes in your attitude and character over the short period of time we've been parents. It has been nothing short of inspirational to watch God work in you as He's helped you, equipped you, and empowered you for the challenges at hand. You truly are a wonderful mother and a loving wife... I can't thank God enough for leading me to the perfect woman, friend, and partner. When we were first married, I never thought I could love you more than the moment we first exchanged vows. But now, looking back on it all, I realize that it was only just the beginning because I love you more now than I ever have... and I suspect when we're playing scrabble in our wheelchairs seventy years from now, I will love you even more.