This past month, I’ve had the pleasure of serving in Albania. I learned how to lime-wash, clear pig poop, and manually mix cement (among other things). Every month on the Race, I’ve learned so much. But even though there were no kids, I learned a lot about motherhood this month thanks to a girl (pup) named Tucker. I will never forget Tuck & how God used her in my life.
The first thing I learned from Tuck was just how badly and how soon I want to be a momma. I knew this to some degree before her, but after caring for her and seeing her grow, this desire only increased. I want to be a momma to as many kids as God will bless me with and obtained in whatever way God sees fit. Kids are a gift from God that I will gladly receive.
Tuck also taught me so much about responsibility. Our first/fill in host for Albania said something to the effect of “You will never grow in responsibility until you are responsible for the life of someone else”. How true these words were. I was always a little terrified about becoming a mother because I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to properly take care of someone else. The responsibility side of things terrified me. I didn’t think I was up for it. I thought I would fall flat on my face. I thought 2AM feedings would be the death of me. I thought the frequent cries (especially in the middle of the night) would break me. But you know what? That’s where God steps in. He was my strength and patience when I had night Tuck duty. He alone gave me the strength to rise to the challenge. I am so glad that He trusted me (and others) with the responsibility of caring for Tuck this past month).
The biggest thing that Tuck taught me was about sacrifice and the joy it brings. 2 AM (and 4AM- basically every 2-3 hours) feedings were rough. There were nights I wished I could just go back to sleep and ignore my responsibility, but I’m so glad I didn’t. Because those times when I got up, fed, helped her pee/poop, and changed the water bottle (that was keeping her warm), I had some precious moments with that pup. I got to hear those excited, hungry sounds she made. I got to see her paw at my hand as she took her bottle, just so excited she was eating that she couldn’t keep still. I got to see her grow and get strong. I was so excited the first time she was able to use the bush on her own! And the first time she squatted all by herself- pure joy! I wouldn’t change a thing about the time I spent with her.
I know she’s just a four-legged creature, but God uses all sorts for His glory. I will never forget the precious lessons Tuck taught me. I am so thankful to have been able to spend a month with her.
