“Gentle,” I say in a soft voice as I take her hand and stroke the baby doll’s head. “Gentle,” I remind as I show her how to properly pet our dog, Georgia. “Gentle,” I whisper as I show her how to greet small friends her size.

She is 14 months old.

So, there are lots of words and phrases we repeat throughout the day.

No no.
Clap your hands.
High five!
Give mama kiss.
Where’s dada?
Yay!

But, “gentle,” has been at the top of the list lately.

In the repetition and soft correction of the word and motion one morning, something happened in my spirit.

As I was teaching her the importance of being gentle with someone or something, I felt the Lord say, “My child, why aren’t you gentle with yourself?” It was a deep thought—one with a weight and heaviness that sits with you for a while.

Why is it important to be gentle?
Am I too hard on myself?
What does it mean to treat myself with gentleness?

The world of motherhood has opened my eyes to the truth that as I parent Charlotte, the Lord parents me. As I guide Charlotte, the Lord guides me. As I teach Charlotte, the Lord teaches me.

He wraps His arms around me.
He lavishes His grace upon me.
He brings my hand to my face saying, “Gentle, my child. Gentle.” Parents. Guides. Teaches.
Wraps. Lavishes. Brings.

All present tense.

I am 28 years old.

So, there are lots of words and phrases He repeats throughout the day.

You are enough.
I am with you.
I love you.
I have called you to this.
Give yourself grace.
Gentle.