ANTS!

We have had so many ant problems this summer.  I know today is the FIRST day of autumn but the ants are still alive and well.  I’ve gone as far as hiring a PEST Control company, but the ants are relentless.  I don’t handle it well either.  I woke up this morning and the kitchen sink was crawling with them.  I instantly started to shout and moan about it.  Meanwhile my 21 month old son is watching my REACTION from a distance.  I suddenly become overwhelmed with frustration seeing the mess that crawled before me.  I broke down and began weeping. 

After the ants were all cleaned up, sink emptied and dried off I heard my toddler getting frustrated.  I walked into the living room and I saw him getting upset because the car he had in hand would not fit into this box that was sitting in front of him.  I kindly leaned over and turn the car onto its side and gently slid it into the box.  He looked up at me and smiled!  I turned around and began to walk away and suddenly heard him start up again BUT this time he’s was fired up!   He just couldn’t figure out how to get that car into the box.  He began to cry and threw the car and kicked the box.  I’m beside myself because I had never seen him do that before! 

Then the light went on in my head!  Mommy taught him how to deal with the ANTS!  She taught him that kicking, shouting and crying were A WAY to deal with frustration.  The car and the box were his ANTS! 

What are you teaching through your actions?  What are your ANTS?  This weekend as you’re with friends and family remember the ANTS and choose wisely!

Stephanie Lainez

Author-Rachel and the Lion