Article October 13, 2008 Issue

WORDS THAT BLESS

BY SUSAN TISH

When my kids were little, like many moms, I looked forward to a weekly playgroup as an oasis of adulthood in the midst of my child-dominated life. While the kids played together, the moms would talk. I respected the intelligent women in my group and shared everything with them, from disciplinary tips to political views. These women became a source of information and comfort.

Today, I continue to feel that gatherings like this can be a blessing to new mothers yearning for conversation and a sounding board for the frustrations and joys of parenthood. But thankfully, this wasn't the only place I went seeking parenting advice. Throughout my life, I've turned to the Christian Science Bible Lesson as my guide for how to handle daily challenges and keep my thought focused on good. During that time when my kids were young, I would get up very early to enjoy the stillness of a new day—alone with God and the invigorating ideas in the Bible Lesson. They refreshed me, perked me up, and prepared me for the hours ahead.