A Time to Brag

No, I’m not bragging on me but the women in my “crew”.

I gave birth to an amazing woman. She has been “all things” as a daughter. She was sweet, girlie and could light up a room with her giggle. As she grew, her interests expanded. She loved sports and excelled at any sport she chose. She was power and grace on the court or on the playing field. She was a joy to watch – and not just to those who loved her. She was a “child magnet”. She worked summer camps and kids would swarm around her when she got out of the car. She was and is very creative – in artwork and now in makeup application. She loves big, is protective of those she loves and is always a joy to be around. She is a natural mother to her three and it is a joy to watch her with them. She is her husband’s everything. God knew I would need her sweet spirit in my life.

Our youngest son married a very talented, beautiful and loving woman. Her singing stirs the soul and her smile brightens any dark corner. She has wisdom and is sought out for it. Growing up she was part of sports teams and still has a heart for her team. I believe she was born an “old soul”. She calms my soul when she walks in the door. Her effervescent personality draws others to her. She brings out the best in my son and loves him big. I have no doubt God hand-chose her for our son and this family.

Our oldest son married a beautiful, intelligent and caring woman. She has suffered great tragedies in her life and yet her grace and joy still abound. She cares for everyone in her circle and those of us in that circle are truly blessed. She has effortless grace and so much creative talent. My son brightens when she walks into the room and her love for him is obvious to all in the room. She does all she can to protect and lead her children. Her “mother love” is deep and fierce. She is a blessing from God to this family of ours, our son and to me.

I had a lot of time recently to sit back and reflect on my life. In every meaningful portion of time in my life there has always been a woman. During my childhood it was my mother, sister, aunts and grandmothers. So many childhood memories revolve around them. Even in adulthood, their fingerprints can be found. With the exception of my sister and one beloved aunt, who both live miles away, the women of my childhood have all left this world. The loneliness I felt when my mother died was surprisingly tangible. It was a heaviness as real as a car parked on my heart. I felt I was left comfortless.

However, as a Christian, I know that is not true.

The Holy Spirit is with me and comforts me when I do not have the words or tears to express my distraught or emptiness. Also, I see that before my mom left me, God had already placed a hedge of comfort around me – these three daughters. They each bring comfort to me in their own way. I praise God for all they add to my life and to my three sons and husband. What a privilege it is to have them all in my life. My joys are increased and my burdens are lightened because of them.

LESSON: When tempted to despair, look around. God has not forsaken you, He is there in many forms. You only need to seek with your heart.