Dear Lindsey,
I don’t remember catching your last name, but I wanted to tell you “Thanks!” I really enjoyed getting my baby fix at Mass on Monday. We attended church in Mansfield (not our regular parish) when your beautiful 2/3 year old girl caught my attention right after communion. As you passed by our pew, she was voicing her opinion and knew she had you right where she wanted you! Your hands were full with the new baby and the three other young girls in tow, so as you tried to reign the toddler in, she knew she had the upper hand. I remember those days well! I quickly whispered for my children to stay together and followed you back to the cry room. “Let me help you, Momma,” I said. And you gave the baby to me without hesitation. Thank you!
I miss the softness of a new baby’s head. I miss the rocking motion and holding that little life in my arms. Your baby was so precious, but your toddler tugged my heart strings just as much! Strong and independent, she was not afraid to rebel and state her case. You were awesome with her. You firmly and persistently reminded her of the rules and stood your ground (or squatted at face level) until she verbally acknowledged you. Then, you turned to the three other girls and reminded them not to climb, not to sit on the sill, and that Jesus was present in the church. You may have left Mass that day wondering if it was all worth the effort. It was!
Everyone who witnessed your attendance at Mass, witnessed evangelization in motion. While most adults make excuses to not attend a Holy Day Mass and most children aren’t even aware they exist, you came. You prayed. You conquered 5 small children by yourself for 95% of the Mass. And you are living the example for your children to follow, which is even more valuable than all the above. Yes, I have lots of kids too; but, my children were spaced out until the last six. When my younger six arrived back-to-back, I already had older ones that could help hold a baby or reign in a toddler. I rarely had to take them anywhere alone, if I took (take) them at all.
Not only did you take the girls to church, I imagine that most of your errands have all 5 kids in tow as well. I just want to say, Keep up the good work. You will be rewarded in ways that you cannot even imagine. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help because it may be just as much of a blessing to your helper as it is to you–maybe even more. Because of my own family and health limitations I don’t get to offer help to young mothers like I want to, my own daughter included. Just being able to help those last few moments of Mass was an amazing gift to me. I hope to meet you again soon! Until then, God’s blessings upon you and your family!
Sincerely,
Jill
You Look Tired! 