Learning the Way of the Cross

(This pic was not posed. MM was really upset before her nap missing her Papa. She finally asked to "hold a cross with Jesus on it," and she fell asleep holding it. I couldn't resist taking a picture).

This morning, Margaret Mary couldn't wait to go to Mass to see her friends. She knew exactly what she wanted to do: play house. She would be the baby, Mary Grace would be the Mama and Henry would be the baby. After Mass when she got to play, it became obvious that although Mary Grace was excited to see her, she didn't want to play house at all.

On the way home Margaret Mary talked about this. She didn't understand. She wanted to play what SHE wanted to play. She didn't want to play anything else. This Lent we have been talking to her about sacrifice, about the way of the Cross, and how it is the true picture of love. It is about rising above your own desires and acknowledging the worth of those around us by seeking their good first. What games does Mary Grace want to play? What would happen if we forced Mary Grace to play house? Would she have fun? Would she want to play again? It is a lot for a little girl to take it. It is a lot for ME to take in. Can I leave the last cookie on the plate for my husband? Maybe, depends on the cookie. :) For a friend? For a stranger? Chances are pretty low.

It is sweet to see her put the pieces together in her little way. We made a crown of thorns out of play dough and toothpicks and have it on the centerpiece on the table. When we make a sacrifice for someone out of Love for Jesus, we take out a toothpick. It's a fun way to keep focus during the forty days of lent. I love it when Margaret Mary comes running to me with big eyes "Mommy, Mommy, I made a sacrifice!" Most of the time she gives Henry a toy he wants. Although small, it makes my heart swell seeing my little girl learn how to love. And not just the sentimental mushy emotional kind of love; the hard work, laying down your desires, seeking the best for others, sweaty kind of love.