My kids are strong.  They are resilient.  They are creative, and witty, and crafty.  They know how to make me laugh, how to make me cry, and how to make me want to parent better.  And yet, in all of this capability, they are also still kids.  Kids who get frustrated when things don't go their way, kids who struggle with being accepted, who have to stand their ground when the crowd goes in another direction, kids who feel the ebb and flow of emotion-- and feel out of control.

Tonight we went head-long into a pre-teen emotional tailspin that had all of us wondering which way was up.  One second she was crying because she felt bad for breaking her brother's new fan-- the next she was deep sobbing over the top of the computer asking why I wouldn't let her check her grades.  There was a good 60 minutes of tears with periods of probing from me and her older brother as to what was REALLY wrong.

The bottom line: She didn't know what was wrong.  Her body had taken her hostage.  The hormones have charged the front lines, dug foxholes and don't show any signs of surrender.  So, this is me a humble servant, on my knees.  Dear Lord, you gave me this sweet girl.  You know that she is a beautiful ball of contradictions and that her heart sings in celebration of your love.  You gave her to me, which means you will equip me to speak wisdom to her.  You will allow me to comfort her, and encourage her, and empower her to be the young women YOU designed HER to be.  You knew her even before she was in my womb, Lord…and for that, I am thankful.  Some warriors stand on the front lines, Lord….but I understand my most important battles are taking place inside the hearts and minds of my kids.  Heavenly Father, please give me strength and wisdom to persevere. To weather the storm.  To run this race well.  And please, as a small request… maybe….could these emotional meltdowns happen sometime prior to 9:45 at night?  Amen.