Sometimes stressful/negative situations can result in surprise blessings. We just have to know what to look for. This was the case for the events that unfolded today.
Coincidentally, the other day I shared a post about how parents model things for our children-whether we are aware or not. One of those things being how we deal with frustration and it just so happened that today became a prime opportunity to model MY coping skills for my son.
Earlier in the year I had ordered my son’s yearbook (his very 1st one) and I was told the teachers would be handing them out today-the last day of school. I even double checked yesterday that his name was on the list to get one.
I picked up my Kindergarten graduate this afternoon and asked him if he received his yearbook. He told me he did not. Argh.
Somewhat frustrated and urging him to check his backpack again, I called the school and spoke to someone in the office who confirmed that yes his name was on the list, but since he didn’t get one, I needed to email the PTA yearbook committee who is in charge of distribution.
I immediately sent an email explaining the situation at hand and was then informed that IF there was still a yearbook available one would be left at the front office for me to pick up. Otherwise they would issue me a refund and they’d let me know.
Ummm okay?! That’s super frustrating/disappointing/annoying to hear. I thought, “This is definitely going to be tough to explain to my son“ who was excitedly looking forward to getting his yearbook-the one I had paid for in plenty of time and was assured that his name was on the list to receive. Instead of writing all of aforementioned back. I responded, “Thank you for your help. Please let me know”.
While I was waiting for a response from the committee member, I had the opportunity to explain the situation to my son and what the final result may end up being-depending on what response I received. Although I was frustrated myself, I was cognizant of my tone of voice and the words I used to explain what was happening. I wanted to be a good example for him during this teachable moment.
Thankfully, I soon received an email letting me know a yearbook was found and waiting for me to pick up. I have to be honest, I was relieved at that moment that I didn’t have to explain how you can do the right thing in life and still end up not getting what you’re supposed to have.
Not wasting any time, my son and I hopped into the car and headed to his school. The timing was perfect as I was just catching office staff and administrators heading out for the weekend. The Assistant Principal opened the door for me and while I waited for the yearbook, she made it a point to let me know what a joy my son is to be around and how caring and sweet he is. My heart swelled with pride.
There it was. The unexpected blessing that emerged out of the frustrating situation. The positive from the negative. I reflected afterward about the fact that had my son received his yearbook in class as he was supposed to, I never would have had the encounter with the Assistant Principal where she quite honestly made my entire day-if not my week. Like other mommas, I question my parenting choices and sometimes wonder if I’m messing everything up. Her words were like a reassuring pat on my shoulder telling me, “You’re fine. He’s doing great. Take a deep breath”.
Those who know me pretty well know that it doesn’t take much for me to cry, especially when it relates to my children. When I returned to the car and handed my son his yearbook I shared the comments made my his AP. I of course told him how proud of him I was, but more importantly, that he should be proud of himself for behaving in such an admirable manner. For choosing to be kind and sweet and caring. All of the things I know him to be.
We had a great rest of the day looking through his yearbook and I even pulled out some of mine from elementary school. Needless to say, he wasn’t impressed by their lack of color!
I sincerely hope the next time I’m faced with a frustrating/stressful situation, I remember to look for the surprise blessing that may be waiting to be discovered.
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