It's September! Fall is supposed to be coming soon! Many people look forward to the Pumpkin Spice flavored everything, but that isn't at all what I love about Fall. I love the crisp air, the crunchy leaves, and wearing sweaters and boots. It's pretty much the only time of year that I feel "cute" in my clothing!
It's been busy here at the Schussler household as we have adjusted to the new school year, added business stuff and work stuff. The boys are settled into their new routine, as well as Kevin adjusting to his new students. And, well, here I am, just trying to figure out how I want my days to look. I've been more emotional and a little lost, but I'm definitely getting there!
I'd like to say my emotional self is from missing the boys or being sad about them growing up. But, it's not. I am THRILLED that they are growing into such wonderful people!!! Being emotional over children growing up seems to be an "okay" and acceptable reason... But, no, my emotional self is being driven by feelings of being unseen, unnoticed, misunderstood. And, well, it's nonsense... I know in my head it's not true. But my feelings seem to not care much for what my head says!
I was watching a show with the boys the other day, and one of the hosts of the show yells out to one of the contestants, "I see you! I see you working hard! Keep trying! I see you!" Suddenly, I am sitting with tears streaming down my face, wishing someone was yelling that at me. I found myself longing for those around me to be like that host... "Kristen, I see you! I see how hard you're trying! I see you!"
Here's the thing, even IF no one in the entire world saw me (which isn't true), God does. And sometimes, that has to be enough. Because the God that is busy caring for the ENTIRE world also sees ME. He sees me and knows my struggles. He sees how hard I try to not be knocked down by challenges. He sees me fighting everyday to make it a GOOD day, no matter what gets thrown my way. He sees my tears, my laughter, my pain, my joy, ALL OF IT. No matter how alone I feel, how unseen I feel, HE IS THERE.
It's so easy for us as humans to get wrapped up in life and to feel unnoticed. It's even easier for us moms to feel unseen, and well, unappreciated. But I am learning that we are seen and definitely appreciated. Not just by God, but by those around us. God has placed amazing people in our lives who absolutely see us. Not just the outer us, but the inner us. The us that we don't easily show. Take a moment and remember that even if they aren't saying "I see you", they DO see you. And in case you haven't heard it recently (because we all need to hear it), I SEE YOU.
For those moms who haven't slept in months and can't remember what day it is: I see you. For the dads who are desperately trying to support their emotional wives: I see you. For the single parents juggling more than they should have to: I see you. For the teachers who work so hard to make their classrooms a safe place for children: I see you. For those who are suffering loss and pain: I see you. For those who are working towards goals, but might not be reaching them as fast as you'd like: I see you. For people who are just trying to find their place on this crazy earth: I see you.
I see YOU. I see how God is using you, working in you, growing you. I see how much you mean to those around you and how you play an integral part in your home and community.
Not only do we need to hear it, but we are called to say it... Make sure you are telling those around you that you see them, appreciate them, value them. We are called to encourage and raise people up. And "I see you" is a wonderful way to start.
