The View

This is often my view. Actually, it is my most common view. And not because I'm a slow hiker... although I've been known to talk a lot and that definitely slows me down. Or I sing to myself and get lost in my thoughts.

But mostly it's my view because I'm the mom.

I'm not out front navigating the terrain or deciding which direction we take. I'm not setting the pace and charging boldly on.

I'm at the back, waiting to pick up the fallen and the wounded. I'm at the back, pushing when hills get steep and steps get high. I'm at the back to hold hands with the slow and the tired.

My view from the back lets me watch and make sure everyone's ok. It allows me to lead in more subtle ways. It allows me to show compassion and grace and patience.

And I'm grateful for the spot at the back. Because I don't always want to be the one in charge of the decisions and the navigation through life. But I do always want to be the one to take care of the hurt and the weary. I do want to be the one they turn to in their time of need.

I do want to be their mom. And, oh, I love them. And I wouldn't trade this view for any other.