My daughter finally got hit with the virus that has been making its rounds through our home and community. She had a sore throat yesterday, and she woke up with a fever at 3:00 am.  Poor girl.

This morning it seemed I was repeatedly needed by both children (and the dog) all at the same time! My son was rather distraught at his sister being sick - not because he felt bad for her but because it messed up his plans. She wanted nothing more than to be cuddled most of the morning, but her brother still needed to know he could have Mom's attention as well. At one point when I had the dog needing to be let in the house, a son who needed help with adjusting his attitude, and a daughter lying on the sofa whimpering, I realized I used to always say that "I need to be needed." I do enjoy being able to help and serve others - and that realization helped me to head off the mommy-martyr syndrome.

I could spend my day feeling sorry for myself that I'm surrounded by others who always want/need something from me. Or I can spend my day joyfully pouring myself out in service to those I love, trusting God to fill me up with all I need for each moment. Guess which attitude makes me happier?

Yes, it is good to be needed - because it makes me recognize my need for help from above!