Potty Training and Other Lessons in Grace

We started potty training Isabelle this week. She's been ready for a while, but I've delayed because honestly it's just easier to change a diaper than to run to the bathroom at a moments notice. But, alas, it was time. So we got some special underwear, a bit of candy and treats and away we went. Since she was already pretty ready it hasn't been nearly the work I was expecting, but it has required lots of grace and humility. 

In America training a child to use the bathroom takes foresight and planning. We get everything ready and we strive to train them in a short amount of time. Our schedule us clear, or cupboards full and our resolve steadfast. Here in morocco training a child to do anything is extremely foreign. Children do what they do and you keep them happy as best you can. Yes they train their children to use the toilet, or cactus as the case may be, but as a matter of necessity, not a right of passage into toddlerhood. One day they wear a diaper, the next they don't. Accidents and messes abound, but it's really quite simple.

I can tell you my methods are a bit weird to my friends here. I've gotten loads of questions and suggestions and stories of why I should or shouldn't do something. It takes a whole lot of grace, and humility to not snap at people, or tell them their story is the most rediculous story I have ever heard. That on top of the grace it takes to encourage Isabelle to keep at it, do her best and move on to this new stage. 

I find myself smiling at the Lords ways. I've been praying for more love, humility and grace. He in his never ceasing faithfulness is bringing about these things in me. I kinda hoped it would just happen, that it wouldn't take any effort. But I am tired from the effort changing takes. It's a good tired though, a good peaceful tired and I can't really say that I'd have it any other way.