My 4 Steps to Raising Children

I have been struggling trying to get a grip of being a mother to teenagers.  I have to admit, I wasn't fond of my own teen years.  They were difficult years and I am glad to be past them.  I would never want to re-live those years.  But unfortunately, I feel like I am in a way, re-living them again through my own children.  One thing that I have learned through having teens, is not to sweat the small stuff.  What I mean by that, is anything my twins do at 8 IS small stuff.  I am so much more relaxed with them because I realize these things now.  My poor older kids had it tough.  I sweat about all kinds of small stuff.

As I was preparing to go to the Temple yesterday morning, I was thinking about how much I stress over the teenagers and all they go through.  I used to say that the pioneers had it so much harder than we have it now.  I have changed my mind.  These teenagers have it equally as difficult if not more difficult.  I decided to come up with some steps to parenting to help me focus and not stress so much.  Within about 5 seconds, I came up with the first 3 steps and then Mario suggested the 4th step which is completely necessary.

1.  Love your children unconditionally

2.  Teach them the gospel

3.  Fast and Pray often for them

4.  Trust in the Atonement

So now when I get stressed, I try to remember that stress is not part of my four steps.  That helps me focus my energies. I love each of my children.  They are truly a blessing to me.