Not the Days, Just Some of the Moments

If you have spent any amount of time with me (in person, or via a book) you probably know I am NOT a fan of the statement, "You're gonna miss these days!"
When my children were younger, and I was weary - of the clinging, or the crying, or the questions, or the (fill in the blank) - I was never encouraged by that statement. I was only convinced that memory loss is a sure part of aging. Because, clearly, the women who spoke those words to me didn't really remember what these days are like!

Well, I'm starting to understand what those women meant when they uttered that statement.

Sometimes I go into Joshua's room to say goodnight, and he has his radio on. Ever since he was a little baby, I have been singing to him at bedtime. But I can't sing 'over' the radio. So I ask Joshua (just like I have every night for the past thirteen years), "Do you want a song tonight?" as I move to turn off the radio.
And sometimes he says, "No. I just want to go to sleep." So I give him a kiss, say "Goodnight," and walk out of his room. *sniff* And I think, Gee. It used to be important to him that I sing. He used to not be able to go to sleep if I didn't sing. He used to ask for TWO songs! I used to matter. *sniff, sniff*

And for a moment I think, I'm starting to miss those days.

But then I have occasions when I see my friends with younger children, and they're dealing with irrational tantrums and crying fits. I see my friends trying to understand their child - who doesn't even understand himself - and I pray that God will grant them wisdom and grace for their son.
And I smile as I think to myself, No. I don't really miss those days. Just some of the moments!