A Pair of Blessings

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning." James 1:17 (NKJV)

Small bundles of frail life...so fragile, innocent, and beautiful. Nearly 20 years ago and just over 17 years ago, my world changed twice. Two life forms became an integral part of my life. I was 24 when Mauri was born and 27 when Caleb was born. Although I felt mature, I was not ready for the changes that would come our way. But oh what blessings they have been. Every diaper (wet or dirty), every spit up and long night of crying. Every worry of fever and hospital waiting room marathon. Every smile and every tear. Every gut-busting laugh and red-faced incidence of anger. Every hope and dream and concern. All worth it.

If I exceed all worldly expectations and become a model citizen, son, or teacher, it still will not compare to the accomplishment of being a father. I have the world's best kids. I know all fathers say that, but of course it is true for mine:-) They are not perfect, as none are, but they are a product of years of nurturing and development. We taught them from a young age to love God and had them at church almost every time it was open. But even religious children make mistakes, and I am sure they will make their fair share.

I remember driving with Mauri a few years ago (OK it was more like 14 years ago;-) in the car on the way home from work. I told her that I loved her and that I simply loved her because she was my daughter. She did not have to earn my love or do anything to make me love her. She only had to "exist". I also told her that there was nothing she could ever do to lose my love. Her little perplexed face caught a glimpse of unconditional love that day.

I also remember telling Caleb the story of me jumping three feet off the ground when he was born. He told that story over and over again, because he knew that I was happy for his arrival....and I still feel the urge to jump every time he stays with me.

When their uncle was married a few year's ago, Mauri danced on top of my feet. I spun her around the dance floor and it was a very special time. Year's later, they still follow in my footsteps. I pray I am teaching them to perserve, be strong, and have the confidence to accomplish the life of their dreams. Although they don't live with me anymore, every day I spend with them is a blessing and a chance to see the legacy I helped create. As they quickly approach adulthood, I pray they will remember how much they were loved...and pass that "spark" along to the next generation.

When you a fill a cup to the rim and keep filling it, where does the excess go? I am not sure, but I know this: my heart overflows with love for my kids. They will always be my legacy and my greatest accomplishment. They were worth it all.....every minute...every second.