Keep the foot

“Mom, Teddy said he would give his left foot for me,” my 6-year-old began one of his insightful backseat conversations during the last 5 minutes of our 30-minute commute from school. 

“Really?” I asked. “Teddy said that?” 

“Yes.” He responded with certainty. 

“Would you do that for him?” I inquired. 

“What give my left foot for him?” 

“Yes.” 

“No but I would give my heart for him”. Sometimes I don’t believe this kid is 6. 

I love how he responded. He took into consideration the cost of a foot and knew that there was another way—a better way. Too often we choose to give of ourselves to others in a way that impairs our own function. They leave walking and we are left limping. I do this a lot with my family. Someone needs mom and I am there—listening, watching, counseling, instructing. But in the meantime, my directives are put to the side. 

I can plan where my time goes or I can let time plan where I go. I’ve made the decision to put writing into my day by starting “Mark My Words”. In this manner, I can give my heart and keep my foot.