Yesterday was a very special day for me. After a three-week “doggy boot camp”, I had the joy of bringing home our rescue pup, Wellington. The decision to “lock him up and give away the key” was very hard. We’d let him get away with too much and he was ruling the household. We had to hike over gates countless times a day and the nipping was beginning to scare us with 6 grandchildren. We called our vet, looked up their suggestions, and made a decision. I prayed and spoke soothing words all the way there 3 weeks ago as he shook and whined. I cried most of the way home. He celebrated his first birthday while at camp… and to tell you the truth, I sat down and balled that morning, thinking of him on top of missing unreconciled dear ones. I had to “trust” our decision and let him go to the experts and I reaffirmed my trust in a loving Father for my dear ones.
Parents are letting their children go these weeks — some to their first day of preschool, the first year of high school, or maybe a distant college campus. The school year has begun. Moms and Dads are hoping for the best teachers, praying for kind friends, believing their school choices will reinforce their home values and prepare them for a purpose, a destiny that awaits every living soul.
I spent an hour with the trainer learning commands and how to correct. It was tense, but I was successful. He’s on a literal “short leash” for awhile so we can practice what he’s learned. There was one technique that really spoke to me. My commands are given only once. Further “encouragements” to do as I say are with a verbal “uh-uh” getting louder if he doesn’t respond with a quick snap of the leash. I am NEVER to use his name in a command. Wellington’s name is always positive and used to praise with success. I laughed. I SO remember my mother’s “Mary Elizabeth Best!” I KNEW I was in trouble when I heard my full name. Never did like “Mary” until I was much, much older. Funny that.
So what’s my point today? Sometimes those we love need to learn who’s boss. Sometimes they need boundaries. Sometimes we need to be better at our job of parenting. Sometimes we just need to let go and trust. But — and it’s a BIG BUT — we never, ever stop praying for the best, believing and trusting that all will be well… especially when we partner with God.
Nana’s Nudge: Who do you need to let go and trust God? What are the boundaries you need to set? How can you reinforce them?
Nana’s Song: That’s What Faith Can Do | Trust In You
Nana’s Prayer: Father, I ask Your blessing over our children as they return to school. Protect them as You watch over them. Prepare them for the destiny written in their book (Ps 139:13-19). Help me to mentor, to encourage, and to reinforce excellence in all they do. May they become more like Your Son, Jesus.
Welcome Wellington! And God bless our children/ grandchildren as they move on to their new years.
Great encouragement Mary Puplava! I love it, thank you.