Blessed are the poor in allowance
For this will teach them the value of savings.
Blessed are those who mourn
For I have a Winnie the Pooh band-aid for every boo-boo.
Blessed are the meek
For they always share their toys.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst
For I have cookies and milk.
Blessed are the merciful
For they will stop picking on their little sister.
Blessed are the pure in heart
For they will not lie when I ask if they brushed their teeth.
Blessed are the peacemakers
For I have a headache.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of the name I gave them
For they will appreciate it when they grow up.
Blessed are my children
When other children make fun of the way I dressed you . . .
You are persecuted because I insist we pack your lunch . . .
Others ridicule you because “all the other kids are doing it” and I won’t let you . . .
Rejoice and be glad that you …
have to take a nap
be in bed by 9 pm
have a curfew on school nights
must finish the food on your plate…
Blessed are my children
I do these things because I love you.
– by Glenda Lehman Ervin
Editor’s Note: Originally published May 2017