When you first experience your version of “tantrum heard around the world“, it rarely happens during a quiet, uneventful moment. The memories blur together over time, but the feelings remain—raw and unforgettable. I still recall the mix of disbelief and hurt when I heard an older woman murmur, “My son never acted like that,” followed by a remark from a man and his girlfriend at Marshall’s saying, “Their mother would have beat them if they ever acted like that.” Those moments catch you off guard, replaying in your head long after the storm has passed.
A Moment I’ll Never Forget
I remember my first “tantrum heard around the world” vividly. I had been anxious about how the birthday party would go, clinging to the hope that nothing would go awry. Everything began perfectly—my son was joyful, flashing that irresistible toddler smile—until his mood shifted in an instant. Before I knew it, I found myself carrying him like a surfboard, trudging what felt like the longest walk from the event to my car. In that brief, jarring moment, I realized that even in our best-planned events, chaos can find us.
Shared Struggles and Surprising Moments of Kindness
It wasn’t until recently that I discovered I wasn’t alone in experiencing these overwhelming challenges. Knowing that other parents have felt the same anxiety and emotional overwhelm doesn’t remove the stress, but it does offer a sense of solidarity. I can recall another “tantrum heard around the world”—when I had to escort my son out of a birthday party (age of seven). As I struggled to calm him, a kind woman held the door for us. In that gesture, I felt both shame for needing help and immense gratitude for the support. Sometimes, the very act of accepting help can be as humbling as it is healing.
Easter: When Celebration Met Overwhelm
The most recent trial came on Easter with my 9-year-old son. He adores Easter for two reasons: first, the celebration of Jesus’s death and resurrection, and second, the excitement of the egg hunt—a joy echoed all the way from home to church. His anticipation built until, overwhelmed by his unmet expectations, his world narrowed to a single word: “eggs.” When he couldn’t find any more, his frustration grew so loud that our celebration took an unexpected turn. I ended up walking him out of the church gym, bucket of eggs in hand, with my mom quietly by our side. That day, my anger dissipated, replaced by understanding and deep concern for his little heart.
Embracing Faith in the Midst of Chaos
My son’s outbursts have taught me that the journey of parenting is as unpredictable as it is beautiful. He’s confessed, in his own honest way, that he sometimes feels utterly overwhelmed—if only there were a remote control to adjust his emotions! No matter the diagnosis or the challenge we face—whether it’s ADHD, ODD, autism, or simply a moment of sensory overload—each parent’s story is unique. But here’s what I’ve learned: fear and anxiety never come from the Lord. Instead, they are the work of an enemy who aims to steal our peace. I’ve made a conscious choice to let my faith in Christ and my unwavering love for my son guide me. Approaching every event with a clear head rather than bracing for chaos has been transformative.
2 Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
A Message for Every Parent
I wish I could have told my younger self: “Savor every moment—even the messy ones—and let go of the worry that steals life’s beauty.” Too often, we lose precious time fretting over outbursts, missing all the small victories in between. If you’ve ever felt that you alone are failing, that your child’s struggles reflect your shortcomings, know that you are not alone. This blog is my heartfelt response to every parent who has ever felt lost or ashamed. Compare not your journey with others’ but rather celebrate the progress you’ve made. Research advice thoughtfully, remembering that each child—whether diagnosed with ADHD, ODD, autism, or navigating their own unique challenges—is beautifully individual.
Lean on God, who loves you beyond measure. In moments of despair, stand firm in His word and know that prayer can transform your darkest hours. Even when I’ve Googled hundreds of different ways to cope with these challenges, nothing compares to the peace I feel when I remember that no one else can parent or love my child quite like I do. We were never meant to do this alone.
Today’s Heartfelt Reflection
Our paths may be winding, and the tantrums we face can feel like the echo of a battle fought worldwide. Yet, every step—every size 9 footprint I’ve left behind—is a testament to resilience, love, and faith. Let the chaos remind you that God is beside you, guiding you through valleys and peaks alike. May you find comfort in knowing that in every moment of vulnerability, you are supported by a community that understands your struggle, a community that finds strength in shared stories and unwavering faith.
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26
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