In the beginning of this chapter Teri talks about how she NEVER - unless directly asked - reveals two particular things about herself, because of the ensuing turn in the conversation, and I'm sure you'll be all too familiar with the pattern of this conversation (paraphrased & modified by myself, from the book):

Average Mother asks the DREADED question, "so how many children do you have, and what school are they going to?"

Teri, "we have eight children and, actually, we homeschool"

Average Mother, "Oh my! You must be the most patient woman in the world! I could never do that, my two children drive me crazy!"

Ah huh. Well, I know what Teri means when she says that she is most certainly NOT the most patient woman in the world. She then goes on to ponder what it is then, that made her happy to have eight children and homeschool...her conclusion? An undergirding of a meek and quiet spirit.

Meeting with the Lord

Teri talks about how the Lord has shown her over the last 24 years the importance of spending time with Him daily, in His Word and in prayer. "Most homeschool moms start their homeschooling journey with a definite call from the Lord to homeschool, whether it is through their husbands direction or simply a burden on their own heart. They are stepping out in faith as they start to homeschool, knowing that in no way are they "qualified" or "capable" of homeschooling. However they are convinced that their God is bigger than any of their failings, and they cling joyously to 2 Corinthians 12:9, "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (KJV) They believe the truth of Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me".

She goes on to say how the first thing to be dropped from a busy homeschooling mom's life is most often her quiet time with the Lord. I certainly know from my personal experience that my days go MUCH more smoothly when I make time first thing in the morning to have my quiet time...even if that means getting up at 5 or 5:30am!! And if I'm having a particularly frazzled day, it's most often because I missed my quiet time, or just never managed to 'fit it in'. How else can we have our spirits renewed and refreshed each day, if we miss out this vital spiritual food??!! How can we commit our day to the Lord, and get his help and guidance, if we don't take the time to ask?

Martha or Mary?

Now I know we are all familiar with the story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:38-42, where Martha receives Jesus into her home, and then asks Jesus why he doesn't bid her sister Mary to get up (from Jesus's feet) and help her to serve...he goes on to tell her that Mary has chosen the better thing, to sit at His feet and listen, and rest in Him. I know that many (or most!) homeschooling mothers would fall into the Martha category, rushing around trying to DO everything, and not making time for the most important thing...I know I often do!

There are so many more things that I want to talk about from this chapter, but (as this post has become very long!), I will have to leave it for next week! I've been very naughty sitting here at the computer instead of cleaning the house! ;-)

I would love for you to share your thoughts and experiences!

Love & blessings

Ang

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