Feeling Forgotten?

Published on Heart of the Matter Online, May 21

Do you ever feel forgotten in a room full of people? Do you ever wonder if your children have felt this way? The thought has crossed my mind. Not because I'm wonderfully intuitive (I'm rather thick, actually), but because it's presented itself directly right in front of me - right there. In front of me.

This both astounded and surprised me. How could it be? I'm with my children 24/7 - I am with them constantly. But then it happened,

"Sometimes I feel left out, Mommy."

My little girl has not been herself lately. She's been moody, emotional, cheeky and a wee bit argumentative. I thought it was developmental. I chalked it up to a phase. Then it happened again,

"When can we do something fun, Mommy?"

I ran through the check list in my head. I could think of quite a few fun things we did lately that definitely came under the fun category. I didn't understand what the problem could be. She has had play dates, and extra curricular activities. Loosely structured school work has been focused on science and hand on projects. Not to mention the birthday parties and time spent with Daddy. What was she talking about? (did I mention I was thick?)

Then I realized that I had missed the mark completely. How could I have not seen it before? I didn't understand how one person could be with another for prolonged periods of time, and still feel lonely. Now I get it. I've been teaching. I been providing. I've been taking care of things. But I have failed to meet somebody's needs.

God is merciful.

As I write this, my little one had just snuck into my room - long after I had tucked her in. Oh, she disguised it with some clever little questions, but I knew what she needed. I pulled her into my arms and snuggled her close. I answered her questions with little kisses and let her stay there for a few more minutes.

God is gracious.

Tomorrow I plan on spending a little one on one time with my youngest daughter. Perhaps we'll play a game, perhaps I'll read to her as long as she wants, perhaps I'll make her favorite breakfast. Mostly; I'll be ready to pull her close, and just be with her.

God is forgiving.



Cheryl is a native Canadian, wife, and homeschooling mother to her two daughters ages 8 & 10. You can visit Cheryl at her personal blog, A Day in the Life of Our Homeschool Journey.