Prayerfully, I will take a few moments to share my story with you, and I pray for you as a parent and a spouse. If you are parenting a child with a genetic disorder or another type of illness let go of the guilt. Not every parent harbors guilt, but some of us do, as if we have ruined our child’s life. Right now, parents, I pray that you will not internalize negative thoughts associated with the pain of your child having an illness.
8 Things That Embody Letting Go of the Guilt
- Parents let go of the guilt and praise God despite of your child’s illness!
- Stop worrying about your child’s future and give him or her a parent who trust’s that God is faithful.
- Don’t develop hate for your spouse, as if one of you can change the outcome of the past.
- Don’t blame yourself or any other person.
- Let what is remain, and change your outlook.
- You are only in control of your attitude and not much more.
- If a cure does not rest in your hands, just be there to comfort your child when her or she needs you the most.
- Parents, everyday lift your child and children up in prayer, pray for their health, peace of mine, and pray that they will have strength to endure life. Pray that they will learn from the challenges they face and pray that they will one day be able to uplift others by their testimony.
Perspective is Key
Last week was an extremely difficult week for me, the weather was gloomy and my outlook on life matched the dreary skies. I worried about my child and her genetic disorder. No, she wasn’t ill; in fact, she seemed fine, but I was still having a pity-party all by myself and it was ruining my life. My internal fears controlled everything I did. Those selfish pitiful thoughts took me to a place I didn’t want to be. While consumed with guilt, I didn’t understand what was wrong with me and why I was acting like a person I didn’t know. Then out of the blue I received an email from a reader. While reading her email it hit me, hard, and caused my heart to beat faster and faster, then I realized I was stricken by worry caused by an extreme case of guilt about my child.
You Are Not Alone
I know that I am not alone. I know that others of you face similar feelings, and I am here to stand beside you and say “No more Worries, God’s Got it!”
Her email revealed what it has taken me years to admit. I had served myself a tall glass of disappointment and discouragement before I came to my senses, I recognized that I am not in control of outside forces of nature. I also do not have a right to feel guilty, ashamed, or mad because I am so blessed. My daughter is wonderful and encouraging and I have to let go of the guilt.
There Can Be Rejoicing Even When Weeping
Moreover, I try to remember that there are so many parents going through so much worse than I am. Frankly, I know a few who are, but yet they continue to rejoice. I don’t know what you have thought about or going through, but all of us have something to praise God about. Try to set your focus on the good.
Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus tells us, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”