In the past year, I have written a lion's share of posts about my children. I realize that I have almost excluded one subject with the exception of this post . The irony is this: it is the driving force behind the two books I am writing. But I promised to share my progress with you.
I haven't intentionally avoided writing about the difficulties my husband and I face in parenting our oldest child. It's just not a fun subject, and can be emotionally draining.
My 15 year-old son is what I like to call a "challenging child." Strong-willed is too weak a descriptor. To give a synopsis - he likes to test the limits (and then some). It is too lengthy to share much here, but we have been on a roller coaster of a journey since he was four. It is the main reason the progression of my book slowed almost to a halt this past year. Those days when I struggle to form a smile, the last thing I want to do is relive a moment by writing about it. But I understand I need to capture that exact emotion in order to relate to others.
I realize I am opening myself up to vulnerability, but I believe our family has a story that needs to be shared. A story to let others know they are not alone. A story of endurance and survival. I know God has led our family down this path for a reason. I know He wants us to reach out and help others with what we have learned. It's not a fun story, but it is our reality.
Last week, I finished the first draft of a devotional book for mothers. I'm stepping out on a limb here, because I was sure I heard God wrong on this one. I do not consider myself qualified to that level of writing. (I mean, come on, you've read my posts.) But I continue writing, hoping that the words I put down are truly what He wants me to say. I am now working on the revision process, and evaluating the next step in the publishing process.
In the meantime, I am continuing work on the proposal for my other book. This book will be a support and encouragement for parents. I will share our story, and hope the process helps others in similar situations. I expect to finalize the sample chapters next week.
I know there are many parents out there who have a challenging child. The diagnosis may be different. Situations may be different. But we need to know we're not alone in our struggles. If I can just encourage one person with our story, it will be worth the time invested.
Can you think of someone who has a challenging child?
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