The Homeschool Giggle

As I mentioned in my previous post, Homeschooling: Passing the One-Month Mark, the beginning of this school year was difficult for me. I won’t rehash all the upsets and frustrations, but suffice it to say that I struggled to get this year going. For me, it was a reminder that doing the right thing isn’t necessarily the easiest thing. Homeschooling is that for me—it’s the right thing, but not always the easiest.

Don’t get me wrong. I love it. I’m passionate about it. But ever so often, I have to remind myself that my husband and I have made the right choice for our family.  And just when I’m teetering on the brink of defeat, unrolling my white surrender flag, I get a reminder of just why this form of education is so right.

That’s where I found myself a few weeks ago. I was having a pity party and dreaming of packing up the school books. I felt inadequate and falling so short of my ambitions. Then, like a sunburst into my darkness, I heard it, a giggle.

I was sitting at my husband’s computer, finishing up a bit of work. From the other room, I heard my children giggling and joking with one another. This wasn’t a small snicker. This was a deep in your belly giggle that escalated into laughter that had them both gasping for air.

I realized that if my oldest were away at school for the majority of the day they wouldn’t have the time, or even the inclination, to have that kind of relationship. They would quite possibly spend most of their energy on other people and have little left over for each other.

That moment may seem small, but it meant the world. It was an answer to prayer that reminded me that our family is on the right track. We can always refine our academic pursuits. If I do my job right, they will develop a love of learning that will last a lifetime, but we have a relatively short time to lay a foundation for their relationship.

I want to give them that, a good friendship to go along with their blood connection. Developing that kind of relationship takes time. It takes them having time to play together, having time to disagree and forgive, having time to appreciate each other’s strengths, having time to look past each other’s weaknesses, simply having time.

Yes, homeschooling comes with its challenges, but I’m reminded again of the blessings it allows. Once again, I’m so thankful for it.

What about you? Have you had moment—a kind of “giggle”—when you knew homeschooling was working for your family? If so, I’d love hear about it. Please leave a comment.

Photo: Laughing by a4pga