This week has been a tough week for Highland Park, Illinois. The stories of lives gone too soon and others’ heroic actions still don’t paint the world pretty.

In fact, it can leave us feeling deeply hurt with a heart hardening with every beat.

How can we make a difference when the difference is making us hurt?

I can’t answer all the sorrow for the world. That I must rely on God and God alone. My strength, nor yours, will get you through something as traumatic as Highland Park.

When things like this happen, I don’t always have a deep conversation with my children. But I do go deep with my actions for my children.

I want my children to know the depth of my love in all circumstances.

With all the wonder, our children need to feel our arms wrapped around them, not pushing against them.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Wrap your arms around your children!

There really is no other way to put it than to see your child.

So many of our days are filled with busyness and to-do list checkmarks, that we forget the most important things in life.

We know our kids are there, but do we really know they’re there?

1. SEE with your own eyes. You must see your child. Drop the technology and reach for humanity. We are missing the mark and that’s gotta stop.
2. BELIEVE with your own heart. You have to be the greatest cheerleader for your child. Be involved in their lives. Know where they’re at. Ask questions to always keep communication open. Your child gains energy from you.
3. EXPRESS with your own actions and words. Be yourself, but express yourself. Fear of sharing your emotions in public or private has gotta go. Your child needs to see expression and the way to handle it.

If you want to love deeper, but are unsure how to show it.  encourage you to reach out to a counselor/therpist, a coach, a mentor, someone you trust and look up to as to how they are or have raised their children.

CHALLENGE: Where can you wrap your arms around your child tighter?

It’s so special to embrace the world through the eyes of a child. With all the wonder, may your child open up your eyes.

“Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!“