a mother's version of 1 Corinthians 13

I found this neat version of 1 Corinthians 13 on my cousin's wife's blog (Nancy, would that make you my cousin-in-law??) :) and I just loved it, so I wanted to pass it along. I found it very encouraging and humbling. Enjoy.

1 Corinthians 13

If I keep my house immaculately clean, and am envied by all

for my interior decorating, but do not show love in my family –

I’m just another housewife.

If I’m always producing lovely things – sewing, art; if I always

look attractive, and speak intelligently, but am not loving to my

family – I am nothing.

If I’m busy in community affairs, teach Sunday school, and

drive in the carpool, but fail to give adequate love to my family – I

gain nothing.

Love changes diapers, cleans up messes, and ties shoes –

over and over again.

Love is kind, though tired and frazzled.

Love doesn’t envy another wife – one whose children are

“spaced” better, or in school so she has time to pursue her own

interests.

Love doesn’t try to impress others with my abilities or

knowledge as a mother.

Love doesn’t scream at the kids.

Love doesn’t feel cheated because I didn’t get to do what I

wanted to do today – sew, read, soak in a hot tub.

Love doesn’t lose my temper easily.

Love doesn’t assume that my children are being naughty just

because their noise level is irritating.

Love doesn’t rejoice when other people’s children

misbehave and make mine look good.

Love is genuinely happy when others are honored by their

children.

-By Jean Fleming