My Family

My 2 year old daughter Andi has been asking me and my husband JA lately for “family hug”, “family kiss”, “family sleep”… She loves the idea of doing things together as a family.
I am amazed at how even at a young age she can understand what a family is. I remember some incidents when JA and I would have disagreements and she would feel it. We try to make it a rule not to argue or fight in front of her. But even if we try to shield her of these things, somehow, she knows when we are not okay. She usually will look at us and say, “Daddy, kiss Mommy.” or “Mommy, hug Daddy.” or “Mommy, say hi to Daddy!”

Last month, I attended a baby shower for my friend who is going to give birth anytime soon. All the guests were asked for advice for the new mom about parenting as she opened her gifts. One of the things I said was, “Prioritize your husband and your marriage.”

I have always believed in this. I was advised the same thing before becoming a mom. I am a wife first, then a mom. When I became a mom though, this was easier said than done. Being a mom is one of the most fulfilling and wonderful things that has ever happened to me. But, it has been one of the most challenging too, physically and emotionally. I have never juggled so many roles and responsibilities until I became one. It might not be an easy task, but I love being a mom. By God’s grace, I want to become the best mom I could be for Andi and our future children.

Now having said that, I have realized that in order to be the best mother I can be, I need to be the best wife that I could be too. I can see how my marriage is a source of security for my daughter. I believe that this is one of the best and most important gifts I could/we could give her.

A strong marriage is a gift we give to our children. I am constantly checking myself on how much importance I put into building, protecting and honoring my marriage/my relationship with JA. I want Andi to see, feel and know that she will always have a family and that Mommy and Daddy love one another. And I pray that I can live this out every day of my life.