One of my favorite blogs, Ship Full O' Pirates is hosting a series. She's called it "Help For Growing Families". I think I'll play along!
I very often get the "How do you do it?", "Are they all yours?", "You have your hands full!" or even the dreaded "OMG!" when we go out. I know those trite comments frustrate and annoy many parents of larger families. They wear on me, too! But instead of snapping back with a sarcastic answer (like I want to do), I use the exclamation to give glory to the Lord and perhaps get a chance to share the Gospel. I also try to remember to smile when we are out, so as to not make my children look burdensome.
Taking the Lord's name in vain seems pretty common in my area, and it botheres me the most. I don't speak like that to my children, and hate that others do! So now I answer that exclamation with a praise: "Isn't He wonderful! Look how He has blessed our family!" After they pick up their jaw, the other person is in a better place to ask intelligent questions and have a good conversation. They are often a bit embarrassed at their mis-use of the Lord's name, as well.
"Are they all yours?" invites "Yes, thankfully, they are! Aren't I blessed?" I babysit a couple of kids, so if they are with us, I say "I babysit these two, but the others are mine. Aren't I blessed?"
"How do you do it?" is usually answered with "By God's grace!" and "You have your hands full!" gets answered with " No, the Lord doesn't give us more blessings than we can handle! I hope to have more Blessings someday!"
Only once I was asked "If I knew what causes that?". I was taken aback, but answered, "The blessing of God". Having practiced giving a positive answer to the common reaction of seeing our family, I was able to not lose my witness when asked a particularly rude question. I have been able to share the gospel many times with folks who are intrigued by our family. I may not be able to be a missionary to Africa or China, but I can share the gospel with those in need of the Savior here in my little town!
Thanks for sharing! I get asked the very same types of questions or get the same comments as well. I have 7 children so far ranging in age from 9 - 6 mos. old. Like you I try to give all credit to the Lord and not myself. It would be a difficult task for someone did not have a strong, daily dependence on Christ Jesus.
By HIS Grace,
Amy
www.thehouseofshelbys.blogspot.com
What a sweet post. I know it's hard to not "blow it" in response to rude questions. I just don't think people consider that they are being rude.
It's always good to have a kind word ready. Great advice!
Yep, I often get the Don't ya know what causes that comment. I get a gleam in my eye and say, "Yep. We must be better at it than average." ;) Usually stops them. Haha!!! My husband asks if they want any tips... he'sa guy. He can pull it off.
This year we were going to an extended family reunion and I knew I would be getting a lot of those types of comments. I too decided ahead of time on some positive replies. I think they really helped me stay on top of the situation and not get angry. I didn't let them hurt my feelings, because I got to share how I felt about large families and it really did invite a more positive interaction between all of us.
I'm the blessed wife of My Honey of 14 years, and Momma to eight wonderful Lambies aged 13 and under. We live in Central CA, and use Ambleside Online for our curriculum. I'd love to meet you , so browse a while and feel free to leave a comment!
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• Nov. 11, 2008 - Untitled Comment
By HIS Grace,
Amy
www.thehouseofshelbys.blogspot.com