Breeder or Blessed?

Several months ago I read an article in a well-known christian magazine about children. My memory in general is lacking but I do remember one thing...reading the term "breeder". I read on further in this article and concluded that Tim and I are "breeders". I don't get offended, as a matter of fact, it doesn't even bother me. It does, however, sadden me. Reading a magazine is just that...reading a magazine. It is an article on a piece of paper, written by someone I don't know, and more than likely will never meet. But a couple week ago Tim was at a home here in Randle. He was being introduced to someone new and the person introducing him stated..."This is Tim Walker...he's a breeder...children everywhere." That brought the term closer to home. It made it just a little more real. And it still doesn't bother me...it just saddens me all the more. By hearing this local call my husband a breeder brought forth a challenge to me. To live in Randle and to be a witness, in the area of children, to my community. I love living here and I love my children. I pray that as I live here day to day, at the library, the store, the gas station, the local flower shop, etc...that I would always and forever view my children as a blessing and a delight. And that others would see me doing so. Maybe, just maybe, by God's grace they will change their view...for children truly are a blessing from the Lord!!

Here is a poem a friend shared with me. She is a new friend and I look forward to getting to know her more. She loves her children as I love mine.

Here is another sweet, fragrant mouth to kiss;

Here are two more feet to make music with their pattering about my nursery.

Here is a soul to train for God,

And the body in which it dwells is worthy all it will cost,

Since it is the abode of a kingly tenant.

I may see less of friends, but I have gained one dearer than them all,

To whom, while I minister in Christ's name,

I make a willing sacrifice of what little leisure for my own recreation

My other darlings have left me.

Yes, my precious baby,

You are welcome to your mother's heart,

Welcome to her time,

Her stregth,

Her health,

Her tenderest caress,

To her lifelong prayers!

Oh, how rich I am, how truly, how wonderfully blest!

(Stepping Heavenward, Elizabeth Pretiss, 1800)