On Sunday morning Derek left for an almost six day trip to Orlando to paint with fellow artists known as the Limner Society. This is his 7th trip since Ariana was born and I didn't think I would be able to manage as well as I have. When I don't have a choice its amazing what I can pull out the bag. This has given me a greater respect for single parents especially when the burden of supporting a family is added to the mix.
Its harder and its easier. Its harder as you don't have immediate help- you usually have to be well prepared. Its easier as you don't need to put any energy into the marital relationship as your spouse is absent.
I recommend every couple with children to give this a try and discover some of the benefits. Yes its hard but it forces you to stretch yourself and humbles you to ask for help as you know you couldn't do it alone. By both partners taking on this challenge it balances the control/power equation between spouses and is good for a marriage. Yes, I'm talking to women or moms who think they hold the power or know whats best. Dad's do things differently but no worse. It also gives you a chance to support your spouse's passions and callings in life.
I'm only on day two- speak to me on day six- no really I'll survive and I'll even try to thrive and provide a safe and supportive environment for my children as I am the parent and that is my job whether Derek is at home or not.
The day after Derek returns I'm jetting off to Italy and Romania in a world wind mission trip. Am I hesitant to leave my children? of course- does it make me anxious when I think about it? Most definitely. Is that going to stop me? No. I need to be engaged in the things I believe in else I am not living deeply. When I don't live deeply I don't experience the richness of life- the connection, the community, the shared life, the blessings, the joy.
