I have to confess that I am a procrastinator. If it can be put off until tomorrow, it will be. Deadlines were created for people like me. If something needs to be done, then give me a hard, firm deadline. Don’t ask me to do something if you aren’t going to tell me when you need it. I’m convinced there have been times we’ve had company over just so the house would get cleaned. My best work is done by a ticking clock. It is not something of which I am proud, but something that I recognize and accept in my life. I work around it. But I want more for my children.
I know this is one of the main reasons homeschooling didn’t work out for us. It is also the reason that I cannot be solely responsible for their summer reading and homework assignments. When I am overseeing them, there is badgering and reminding, but not much progress. When dad is in charge, there is a plan and a calendar. There is a system and progress. I am not writing this to make you think I feel sorry for myself, but to help you understand that as it is not my gift. And, it may not be your particular gift to organize and oversee everything either, and if it isn’t, that is okay. You are who God created you to be. If those are not your gifts, find someone who can help you or your child make those plans and provide the accountability needed to see the plan through.
By the end of the summer (which around here will be August 1), Stephen needs to have four books read and a packet of German done. If it were left to me, he would be cramming it all in the last few days of his summer break. But, I’m going to call in the one in our house who is gifted with planning and organization and have him help Stephen develop a plan for the summer that will culminate in Stephen being finished with the work and ready to begin school right where he should be—prepared. And me, not stressed about it.
~ Louise
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