Having a baby who sleeps well and is otherwise content makes weeks like the ones we've just experienced really difficult. These past few weeks have seen Beth developing enormously. She is attempting to roll over, grabbing at everything she can, really focusing on things and starting to interact more with us everyday. She has also been growing.
I honestly forgot how difficult it is, for parents and babies alike, to go through a growth spurt or developmental leap where they discover new things. Although this is a period of exploration for them, it is also a time of uncertainty as they begin to interact more with the environment around them. To feel secure they latch onto the parent (literally at times) and don't let go, and a clingy baby is never easy. The crying and lack of sleep wears you down and the whole period seems as if it will never end.
These last few weeks for me have been a time of humility and training. A time to ask others for help, or to just say 'yes' when it is offered. Too often I say no to offers of help because I don't want to look like I can't do it on my own. This is wrong. I shouldn't be putting so much pressure on myself, and I should be grateful for the kindness I am shown by others.
It is also a time for patience. A time to hold my baby and carry her around all day if necessary, because that is simply what she needs to get through this. I need to wade through the difficult waters so we can make it through the other side stronger and more tightly bonded together. Some days are harder than others, and it doesn't take long before that feeling of weakness starts to take over. Thankfully, God is my Rock and I can lean on him during these difficult times where I feel exceptionally lonely and overwhelmed.
Matthew 11:28-30
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is east and my burden is light."
This is such a great verse to remember during difficult times like these, especially when I struggle to make it through the first few hours in the morning, let alone the day. The only way I can make it through is by God's grace, strength, guidance and wisdom.
