Mothers Like to Make a Positive Impact

I recently heard a story about a college student that went something like this:

Dear Mom and Dad,

By now, you’ve probably heard that the dorm has burnt down.  I was in the basement smoking pot with a few of my friends.  I’m not sure what happened?!
By the way, I won’t be coming home for break this year.  I’m getting married!  Ron is a nice guy.  We’re actually getting married because we’re having a baby.
Well, actually, there is no Ron and I’m not having a baby.  I’m not sure what I’d even do with pot and the dorm is still here.  I just wanted to you to have the right perspective when I told you that I flunked chemistry.

Love Your Daughter,
Erin  ox

Did that story get you thinking?!  It’s important that we have the right perspective when taking a look at impact.  Let me explain.  Sometimes it’s hard to SEE the bigger picture from a close view!  Not only do we need to have the right perspective when dealing with our children but we also need to have the right perspective when we take a look at ourselves as moms.  Whether you are a stay at home mom, work from home or work outside of the home, you see your children and your work as a mom up close too.  Sometimes a mom’s job can feel small or insignificant.  This is not true.  You impact more people then you think!  Sometimes the task is small and you may not even notice the impact while other times the impact may be obvious!  So let’s put things into perspective and look at a few ways you can make a positive impact through your life and in your child’s life:

1) Be a good listener.  This will effect many relationships, including the one with your child.  This will also set a good example for your child!

2) Have your child write a note or draw a picture for a neighbor or friend.  This will teach your child to think of others and will brighten up someones day!

3) Read to your child when he/she is young.  Encouraging your child to read as they grow older will make a positive impact for the rest of their lives.  There are quite a few reading incentive programs out there (especially for over the summer).  Check out the Book Worm Reading Club which offers a free kids meal at Applebees when your child (ages 12 and under) reads 10 books.

4) Do you clip coupons?  Did you know that you can donate expired coupons to military families overseas?!  They can use the coupons up to six months after they expire.  You can check out the Overseas Coupon Program here.

5) If your child is a little older you can check out your local food banks to learn how to get involved or find a local soup kitchen where you can volunteer.

Once you get going, you could probably compile a huge list!  This is just a place to start.  Have you stepped back to see who and what you may have impacted today or for the future?  We’d love to hear about your ideas!