Watching my two year old this morning I began to wonder why two year olds got labeled so poorly ... people often talk about those "terrible twos"... I suppose my experience has been that age 3 and 4 are a little more challenging as a child needs more and more correction and guidance. I actually love the 1-2 year old time... there is less distraction for the child. The child is focused on the parent much more at this time than as they grow beyond these years. The child is listening, watching, and always right there beside you. They are influenced, for the good or the bad. I am convicted of what a crucial time each stage of parenting is, even when it is draining for the parent at times (Can I go to the bathroom alone please?) This is an age for establishing a strong relationship.
Recently a pastor of mine talked about how Jesus told us to be like little children in order to enter the kingdom of God. He mentioned that Jesus was probably referencing a child that was about 2 years old.
When I look at my 6 year old, for example, and my 2 year old... my conclusion is that he is right. My 2 year old is definitely trusting, loving, adoring, utterly dependent. These traits can begin to wane as we age. We become independent, untrusting, focused on self, loving self.
BTW, I'm so glad that we do not drain our Lord. I'm glad he can take all of us, even the tantrums that flare up at times.
For me, I don't think the twos are quite so terrible. I am learning from my two year old how to relate to my Lord.
