I Corinthians 13
Paraphrased for today
Extract from "A mother's heart" By Jean Fleming

If I keep my house immaculately clean,
and am envied by all for my interior decorating,
but do not show love to my family
- I am just another housewife

If I'm always producing lovely things - sewing, art;
if I always look attractive, and speak intelligently,
but  am not loving to my family
- I am nothing

If I'm busy in community affairs,
teach Sunday School, and drive in the carpool,
but fail to give adequate love to my family
- I gain nothing

Love changes nappies,
cleans up messes and ties shoes
 - over and over again.

Love is kind,
though tired and frazzled.

Love doesn't envy another wife
 - one whose children are "spaced" better,
or in school so she has time to pursue her own interests.

Love doesn't try to impress another with my own abilities or knowledge as a mother.

Love doesn't scream at the kids.

Love doesn't assume that my children are being naughty just because their noise level is irritating.

Love doesn't rejoice when other people's children misbehave and make mine look good. 
Love is genuinely happy when others are honoured by their children.