Worries of a single mom

I never dreamed I'd be a single mom. I honestly thought I would grow old with my ex husband and have our grandchildren come over to play with us. That will not be happening. At this point, I'm fine with him being out of my life in that way. We do have three children together, so that keeps him around a little.

A little. He can be in my life a little. But he really needs to be in my children's lives more than he is. He doesn't call them every day, and only sees them a few hours a week. I believe this is taking it's toll. 

I've been having some serious problems with my middle child. He is a great kid. He's well rounded. For example, he will cook you some french toast or cupcakes, and then go cut your grass. He plays Xbox games and football. He likes to read and do his school work. (Well, most of the time on the school work.)

But since his dad started acting weird last fall, my son changed. He has become mean and out of control at home. He calls his brother and sister names every day. It's wearing out my oldest son. He is hurt and doesn't know why his brother seems to hate him so much. It breaks my heart to see my children like they are right now. Everyone disliking everyone. 

Our message Sunday at church was about families and how we need to "circle the wagons" when life gets tough. Back in the day when they had wagons and horses, if danger came, they would circle the wagons and get in the middle together for better protection.

The Bible says in Ephesians 4: 29, Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Proverbs 18: 21a The tongue has the power of life and death

Proverbs 12: 18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Every name my son calls his siblings pierces them like a sword. It hurts. This isn't what I want for my family. I want us to be close. It's different, there is no dad. But that doesn't mean we can't love each other and get along. 

Think before you speak today. Are your words going to hurt someone or help them?