It’s been one of those days.

I’ve been a homeschool mom for twenty years now. While I love it, sometimes homeschooling can be difficult. Especially when I want to make learning fun for my child, but it just doesn’t seem to be.

While thinking about ways to make learning fresh and exciting, I need to be patient with the situation. I need to be patient with my child, and patient with myself.

I know that with a little bit of effort, I can help my child enjoy learning.

I need to keep a calm mind while figuring this out. This is best for me and for my child.

“To bear trials with a calm mind robs misfortune of its strength and burden.”  – Seneca

I find this quote by Seneca encouraging, and it can be applied to all aspects of life!

If I determine to stay calm and positive about any and every situation that comes my way, then the strength and burden of the problem diminishes.

I think that so often we make our problems larger than they actually are by dwelling on them negatively. I totally did this today!

But then I remembered that keeping a calm mind was the way to go. I took a deep breath and encouraged my child with a smile. I pointed out her strengths and we got through the assignment with minimal worries.

I want my children to remember me as a calm and focused mama who loves them very much. I always want to root for them, and find ways to help them succeed.

I think they will remember these moments. Was I flustered or calm? Did I give power to the problem or did I make an effort to calmly solve it?

Our problems do not have to be strong and burdensome. They are what we make them.

I hope you enjoyed this bit of stoic encouragement today!

Blessings, Nicole