Ordinary Blessings for Parents

Photo by Brian Gordillo on Unsplash

I wrote Ordinary Blessings for Parents in the nooks and crannies of Covid Time, when I was home in the close (and constant) proximity of my kids. Quarantine magnified everything about our family life and I noticed all kinds of moments and milestones I might not of otherwise. 

I hoped this book of blessings would find its way into the hearts and homes of families everywhere, a spiritual high-five for parents and caregivers navigating the routines and rituals of life together. These blessings meet you where you are and offer a witness to remind you that you do not go about this sacred work all alone. You are seen and known by a God who knows and delights in your ordinary, who comes near to declare it extraordinary. 

One of my favorite blessings is inspired by watching my kids discern what they are willing to share with their parents. I remember trying to figure out what to tell and how to tell it, wondering how my parents would react to my questions and confessions. I wrote “For Safe Sharing” to bless our best intentions, our trust building, and our promise to receive what they offer along the way. 

“For Safe Sharing”

I promise 

that when you share something 

confusing 

embarrassing 

vulnerable 

scary 

awkward 

consequential 

I will not do anything 

without your consent. 

I will hold space 

for your agency and power, 

which might already feel 

small or threatened. 

I will listen to everything 

you wish to share and 

will respect what you are not 

ready to speak aloud. 

I will be responsible 

for my own opinions and feelings 

because these things 

are not yours to manage.

I might not be able 

to make it all better, 

but I promise 

I won’t make it worse. 

“Ordinary Blessings for Parents: Prayers, Poems, and Meditations for Family Life” is available wherever books are sold. This book is endorsed by Christian, Jewish, spiritual and secular leaders and the blessings do not assume a Triune theology.

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