Heartstrings

Tonight I had my first "tearing at the heartstrings" parenting moment.  I was tucking my girls into bed when Leah spoke up in a concerned voice, "Mom, I need to talk to you."  She continued to tell me about how she doesn't feel like anyone likes her at school.  She said "Sierra and Lucy are friends, and don't include me.  On the playground, no one comes up to me to give me a hug.  It makes me sad." 

Instantly I envisioned myself going up to her school and telling all the little girls how wonderful Leah is and how it would be their loss not to have her as a friend.  But then, the rational side of my brain took over, knowing there was a teaching moment in this situation.

"Leah,"  I said, "You are a great friend.  You are kind and funny and generous.  I'm sorry you feel this way, but you hold your head up high and continue to be friendly.  And you are so lucky to have Hannah as your best friend!"  She took this in, but started crying and saying she didn't want to go to school anymore.  I hugged her and wished I had a magic answer.  She eventually calmed down and went to sleep. I walked away and said a prayer for her, and I am trusting God to take care of her little heart, to hold it in His hands and protect it.

I've heard it said that when you become a parent, it is like having your heart live outside of your chest (Thanks Maria for that quote!).  It is so true.  I want to shield Leah from any hurt or pain, but I know that I can't do that.  And I also recognize that in Leah's little six year old mind that the situation might not be as bad as she perceives it to be.  But still....I just want the world to agree with me in thinking she is such a wonderful, beautiful, tender-hearted soul. 

Because she is truly amazing!