Table of Contents
Foreword Chrystal Evans Hurst 11
Preface 15
Section 1 Empowered By God
1 Let Him Be a Jerk 21
Isolating Idea: I am fully responsible for my child's outcome. Connecting Truth: I am important but not essential in God's plan for my child.
2 Mother of the Year 35
Isolating Idea: I am falling short of the good mom formula. Connecting Truth: I embrace my intention and release fear of imperfection.
3 Hole in My Bucket 45
Isolating Idea: I have nothing left to give. Connecting Truth: I am a limited human being, dependent on a limitless God.
4 Seeing Is Believing 61
Isolating Idea: I am an outsider. Connecting Truth: I am seen, valued, and free to welcome others.
Section 2 Supported By Others
5 No Mom Is an Island 77
Isolating Idea: I have to figure out motherhood on my own. Connecting Truth: I deepen relationships when I allow others to help me.
6 Cleaning Muddy Purses 91
Isolating Idea: I avoid conflict if I disconnect from others. Connecting Truth: I can disagree with you and stay united.
7 All Working Moms 107
Isolating Idea: I don't belong because of my career choices. Connecting Truth: I have a unique mom brand and you do too.
8 Keep the Candles Lit 119
Isolating Idea: I need a more helpful parenting partner. Connecting Truth: I value connecting to a parent who is different from me.
Section 3 Connected to Your Child
9 Don't Make Me Angry 135
Isolating Idea: I can't stop yelling at my kids. Connecting Truth: I can identify anger triggers and use calming tools.
10 Like Riding a Horse 149
Isolating Idea: I don't know how to get my kids to obey. Connecting Truth: I can connect with my kids while shaping their behavior.
11 Throw Away the Receipt 163
Isolating Idea: I would be a better parent if I had different kids. Connecting Truth: I am a better parent because of my kids' differences.
12 Do Like I Do 175
Isolating Idea: I don't know how to lead my kids to Jesus. Connecting Truth: I walk in faith with my kids and let others fill in the gaps.
Acknowledgments 193
Notes 197
About Heather MacFadyen 205
