Beatitudes for Parents

Blessed are the parents who make their peace with spilled milk and with mud, for of such is the kingdom of childhood.

Blessed is the parent who engages not in the comparison of his child with others, for precious unto each is the rhythm of his own growth.

Blessed are the fathers and mothers who have learned laughter, for it is the music of the child's world.

Blessed and wise are those parents who understand the goodness of time, for they make it not a sword that kills growth but a shield to protect.

Blessed and mature are they who without anger can say no, for comforting to the child is the security of firm decisions.

Blessed is the gift of consistency, for it is heart's ease in childhood.

Blessed are they who accept the awkwardness of growth, for they are aware of the choice between marred furnishings and damaged personalities.

Blessed are the teachable, for knowledge brings understanding and understanding brings love.

Blessed are the men and women who, in the midst of the compromising mundane, give love, for they bestow the greatest of all gifts to each other, to their children and - in an ever-widening circle - to the world.

Written by Marion E. Kinneman

I had the privileged of knowing Mrs. Kinneman's daughter, Connie Roudebush. She was the kindest, sweetest person I met in Indianapolis. She told me about nature hikes, daffodil fields, and the symphony orchestra. She invited me into her home where she let my youngest play with her antique toys. She always greeted me with a hug. She encouraged me in my role as a mother. She gave me advice and friendship. She passed away in April. I was thrown into a pool of grief at her passing. I was heartbroken when I heard the news. I felt I had so much to learn from her still.

Her memorial service was beautiful and filled with inspiring music. It was music that she loved, "Water Music" by George Frideric Handel, "Arioso" by Johan Sebastian Bach, and "Sanctus" by Franz Schubert. Her granddaughter gave an incredible remembrance speech about her love of the outdoors, her family, and her community. She had an outgoing personality and made everyone feel like they were her best friend. This post is to honor her.

This quote is from the back of the memorial service program. "Like a stone dropped into a pool, the ripples of a loved one's life spread on and on to touch the lives of others. Your loved one is yours still to love and cherish and hold in your heart. For neither time, nor distance, nor death itself can diminish a love that endures forever."