"John Bytheway tells about the family bicycle ride. You've heard of the grueling bicycle race, 'The Tour de France.' The 'Tour de Family' is a different kind of race—a tandem affair. It begins when a couple gets married. As children come along, the bike is expanded to make a place for each child. At first, young children’s feet do not reach the pedals. Older family members do most of the work. But as children’s feet begin to reach the pedals, they can help pedal too. The goal is not to beat any other family, but to get safely to the finish line with no empty seats. John Bytheway says that if you're a teenager, you're strong enough to help a lot on a ride like this. Are you doing your best to help pedal your family's bicycle forward, or do you tend to hit the brakes? Each family member can evaluate their contribution to the family bicycle ride."
Well, she mentioned that with each new child that isn't old enough to pedal yet, the parents must work harder and harder until one day, much to their surprise, they look back and one of their children is pedaling! As Brooke said this, I began to cry. Then I pulled Riana close and just held her... because I realized that she IS pedaling! She has been so aware of my needs since Calyssa was born and really steps up when I really need her.
Our relationship isn't always perfect. Sometimes we fight like sisters! Sometimes she drags her feet when I ask her to do things. Sometimes she really frustrates me! But sometimes she just blows my mind with her thoughtfulness.
Last night, was my baby brother's Eagle Court of Honor. Afterwards, Riana came up to me in tears. I asked her what was wrong and she said, "Mommy, I'm sad for you that you will never be able to do this because you don't have a son." I started to cry. Not because I was sad, but because I felt so blessed. I reassured her that I'm not sad and let her know that I am the luckiest Mom ever to be blessed with the 6 beautiful girls that I am blessed with!
And if that wasn't good enough, she proceeded to vacume the entire room, while we were cleaning up, instead of running off to play with the rest of the kids... and I didn't even have to ask her to! I was so proud of her for getting in there and helping.
Thank you Riana... thank you for pedaling!! :)
3 comments:
I LOVE that story. I witnessed her being sensitive to your needs that night, and I thought, wow, Riana is really growing into a thoughtful young women, who thinks about other's needs. I was proud of her! That is great.
I love your post. :)
Young women indeed! Next year she will be moving on from primary! Loved the story. Thanks for sharing. You have a great family!!! We would love to see you if you are out this way this summer!
Post a Comment