"You Got That From My Mom"

There are so many things that I so want to document running through my head but time during this season of life will not allow it, but I did want this one down.

Throughout the time God has given us with students, I have often observed how parents are seen by their children and how the children can at times give other sources more credit. Due to this observation I have prayed for my own children to be blessed with sources that are truly credible other than myself and David that may hold a higher "coolness" factor but still be grounded in Truth and be used to solidify Who and what we model in our home within our children's hearts.

Over the Thanksgiving holiday I was enjoying some time with my niece, Emily, nephew, Corey, and the fellas at the end of a table while dining at Cricket's restaurant (family tradition). Emily said something that was a window into a child's perspective as well as reviving my heart's desire for these "other" people. It was very simple and yet has stayed with me since in a profound way. We had ordered the boys water and were hearing some whining about our choice of drink for the meal and I replied with a very parental response having to do with children in many places in the world who would love to have that water. Emily who was seated next to me said something to the effect that I must have heard her mom say that. I couldn't help but giggle but it hit me square in the face that these little ones do not believe us; they think this is just something we say to get out of buying them Coke. I gently responded that I had actually never heard her mom say it but that unfortunately it was the truth--there really are children who would love clean water to drink and we take so much for granted. Her sweet face responded with a look of, "Really?!?!?" I think it was more of a "Really, you've never heard my mom say that?" than about the fact. Still our conversation foretold how our children as they grow older begin to doubt us. I know that Dax, Colton and Baby Girl will question us. I actually want to encourage them to do so in a respectful and appropriate way not just with us but with their Father in Heaven as well. He is big enough to handle their questions as rHe has been faithful to handle mine. I hope they can with seek and search with respect and comfort (different from ease) so as to find the Truth for themselves but my desire and prayer to have others reiterate Truth for them has been rekindled.