Choose JOY

I recently read something that partially inspired my post today The author was saying that she felt like in order for someone to have "good writing material" it seemed something bad had to happen.  She was saying that she felt when something rocked her world in a bad way her words flowed out in a more inspiring way.

While I understand the emotions that come with sadness can lead to some high powered writings I think the opposite to be true.  I think the passion that comes from good news, good feelings, positive experiences that is where inspirational words flow.

My first born, a son now 31 is expecting his first child.  This past Sunday it was confirmed through an ultrasound that he and his wife are expecting a son.  What a joy to hear the excitement in his voice as he shared what it was like seeing the images of his child.  It became real for him.  It became another reason for his being.  It gave him a new hope for the future.  In all honesty it gave him another reason to continue his love for "toys". 

On Monday he was online buying his son a onesie that said he was his daddy's co-pilot, and looking at plans to build him a pedal plane.  Being a dad is so much more than onesies and pedal planes, however the act symbolizes his excitement , his desires, the love he already has for his son.

Son you are moving into another chapter of your life which ultimately comes closer to closing one for me.  I keep repeating over and over, he is going to be a dad.  I have had a lifetime to prepare for this, sometimes wanting it to come quickly, but ever thankful that the Lord shows me that it is NOT about me!
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My thoughts cannot help but to keep returning to my son as a little boy.  An image of your face appears before me and I see that little face as you look up at me with those big brown eyes and say "can I"?
You know me well enough to know that this event would not go without your mother getting all emotional and celebratory.  Protecting you and preparing you has been such a big part of who I am it is hard to redefine my role and accept that my job is done.
 

I have vivid memories of the promises I made you as you slept below my heart many years ago.  Promises I am certain that were kept and some broken.

I am allowed to indulge myself, as Nana it is my right. Part of me sees the baby you were, taking his first steps while the other foot sees a young man going forward with his foot stepping into a world of promise.  You did not step forward you leapt into a world of freedom, adventure, independence a world where you are capable, competent and smarter than I will ever be. ( Do Not ever use this on me).

Even though I am your parent, have been your teacher, your friend, your disciplinarian I can see that I have also been the pupil, you have taught me so much son and you have taught me well.  It isn't just about what you have done, it is only about who you are, your value is in your existance.
I hope as you move into this role as a parent that I have taught you by example, but more than that you are led by your heart.

Your world is about to open up to more than just, lego's, and model planes, it is not just about the Easter Bunny, or Santa Claus.  You are no longer just a son, brother, or husband you are going to be someones dad.  Having to be both mom and dad to you, my hope is that I gave you enough tools for you to be the dad you desired for yourself.

My son there is nothing I can give you that you do not have, but there is much I cannot give you that you can take;

No Heaven can come to us, unless we find rest in today- Take Heaven.

No peace lies in the future which is not hidden in the present- Take Peace

The gloom of the world is but a shadow behind it, yet within reach is joy- Take Joy.

Congratulations son, may this journey be your greatest adventure.