Someone asked me recently if I had any parenting advice. I think they asked because I have three kids and I’ve kept them alive this long.

I responded with “don’t have three kids”.

Terrible, I know. 

It sounds like I don’t like my kids, and I really do.

They are hilarious, loving, and the best teachers I’ve ever had.

But I don’t feel qualified to give other moms advice.

I mean we are basically winging it over here.

No scratch that… we are winging it over here.

As I thought about it a little bit more, I decided I did have a better answer than “don’t have three kids”.

Here’s my advice- pray.

Regardless of your religious affiliation or belief in a higher power, I’m convinced that prayer is the key to getting through each day with your sanity (mostly) intact.

Look heavenward and ask for help from a God, a higher power, the universe at large, or the generations of mothers that have come before you.

Whatever you do, admit to yourself that you aren’t a rock, you aren’t an island, and you do feel pain (and maybe even cry)… too far?

Prayer takes humility and it takes admitting that you cannot successfully navigate motherhood alone… cause newsflash… you can’t.

Prayer takes accepting your own shortcomings, and recognizing that help is available and possible. Prayer opens up the possibility that you aren’t alone, that you aren’t meant to suffer in silence, and that some relief, guidance, and assistance are available.

Pray for patience, understanding, increased love, energy you didn’t know you needed, and a community to lift you up.

Send prayers of gratitude for the small miracles like finding the lost security blanket, that all the vomit ended up in the throw up bowl, and for sticky hugs and messy kisses.

My favorite quote is:

“Get on your knees and pray, and then get on your feet and work.”

This quote perfectly sums up my parenting advice.

Admit you need help, pray, and then keep on keeping on… and enjoy the three kids, cause three kids are loud, chaotic, and oh so funny.