The Toddler's Circle of Life

My son has mood swings. Every now and then he gives me a good week or more of sheer mayhem... just to keep me on my toes, I suppose. For instance, he has been on really good behavior for the last month (barring the typical before naptime or hunger fussiness). This week, however, he has chosen to test all the rules, push every limit, and try out those tantrums again to see if JUST MAYBE he can get away with them again. Mike and I have stood firm. His "fit" the other night broke all other records. He refused to say he was sorry for some pretty bad behavior. And had an hour long tantrum. We didn't cave...we didn't waver... though tempting, we didn't run for the pacifier... And we won. He finally said those adorable words "I SO sawry". He was on model behavior the rest of the day.

I've endured these cycles before... he tests, whines, ...and he fails. Then its back to life as normal again. Hopefully sooner rather than later. :) I've read that children will often fall into this cycles - testing their independence.

As I type this, I am struck by how much this mirrors my relationship with God at times. I have great times of faithfulness. And then, my pride/selfishness/apathy gets in the way and I test Him and my relationship with Him. I whine. I complain. I am disobedient. And, I eventually realize that the reason I am unhappy is because I have done these things and I am disconnected with Him. Then I get my act together and I enjoy sweet fellowship again. God has had infinite patience with me. Hmmm... patience. I could use a little more of that myself.