What You See Isn't Always What You Get by Faith Ashlin

When your 10th grader begins to drive and packs the car with friends after you’ve insisted only one passenger, you’re not raising a 16-year-old, you’re building an adult who is learning the value of relationships.

When your 5th grader refuses to study because no one else has to study, you’re not raising a 10-year-old - you’re building an adult who is testing the boundaries of self-choice. When your preschooler cuts their hair and decorates your walls with black sharpies, you’re not raising a 3-year-old - you’re building a creative adult, with independent thought and attention to detail. When your baby won’t let you sleep, you’re not raising an infant - you’re building a leader and teaching them how to trust their instincts. That is not my skill set, but sometimes I wish it was! They can debate and argue for their opinion to a point that leaves me speechless. They aren’t perfect but each has a work ethic that inspires me, every single day. Our kids have all walked their respective, painful journeys of which they speak - honestly and openly. It isn’t easy living in the fish bowl of pastoral ministry, with people standing on the sidelines of your life, watching your wins and your losses. I will be the first to unapologetically speak about the talent of Evan, Ashlyn and Camryn. I looked him in the eyes, held his hand and said, “Thank you for investing your skills into my son” - to which he responded, “Thank you for sharing him with us.” He went on to tell us we had raised an incredibly compassionate and competent pastor and leader. As we walked through the church where Evan serves on staff, one of his bosses stopped to say how special he and Emily are. We are in Corpus Christi, visiting Evan and Emily. I’m thankful for moments with our kids when we get to see how incredibly special they are.

What You See Isn't Always What You Get by Faith Ashlin