The mantra of “Do it myself” began when our daughter, Libby, was quite young. I won’t say how young as you wouldn’t believe me although it’s documented in her baby book if you need irrefutable proof.
As soon as I’d wiggled shoes onto her little feet, she’d push my hands away, tug off her shoes and insist, “Do it myself”.
“Do you want me to help you?”
“Do it myself.”
“We’re in a hurry. Let me slip them on this time.”
“Do it myself.”
“I’ll do one and you do one.”
“Do it myself.”
“You can play sooner if I help.”
“Do it myself.”
“Let Daddy or brother help.”
“Do it myself.”
Alrighty!
Determination personified. It’s a great trait and one that’s stood her in good stead as she matured into a focused, determined adult.
But there are times “Do it myself”, is not so great.
Whenever I try to parent without God’s guidance, “Do it myself” results in a mess. It slows down positive growth, speeds up disaster, and creates more problems.
Although I often let Libby push my hands away, I knelt close by ready to help if she’d let me.
God, too, allows us to push Him away, yet stays beside us ready to help even before we turn to Him.
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. Psalm 143:8
