When I look back on the years we spent raising three young boys, it’s not always the wins I tend to replay. Some days, it’s the moments I wish I could do over.
So many times I missed the mark.
Too distracted to notice what mattered.
Too harsh when gentleness was needed.
Too lenient when they needed boundaries.
Too busy, far too busy, to show up the way I wanted.
But somehow… love covered more ground than I ever could. And grace filled in the rest.
I’m proud of the boys we raised. They’re solid, thoughtful, sincere men of faith. Having a front-row seat to see the quality men they are, and are becoming, brings a joy that I can’t quite put into words.
So here’s what I’ve learned:
Kids don’t need perfect parents. They need committed ones.
Parents who apologize when they are wrong.
Real humans who keep showing up and who make each day a new beginning.
And those who lean into love, especially when the road gets rocky.
If you’re carrying guilt for all the ways you didn’t (or don’t) get it right, you’re not alone. But you’re also not disqualified. God’s still writing the story.
And grace? It’s remarkably good at mending the pages we wish we could rewrite.
#FirstLightwithNate #ParentingGrace #FaithAndFamily #KeepShowingUp
First Light with Nate is a daily reflection on faith, leadership, and life — one honest thought each morning to help you start grounded, focused, and full of grace before the world even wakes up.
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