Who You Are

Today is her birthday, this granddaughter of mine, her two-year-old self growing big. Her socks are pirated from auntie's suitcase, colorful argyle snug up above knee caps. A smile and pink shirt that says yes-it's-all-about-me-today. Purse dangling from hand, a thought for the future girl she will be when legs stretch taller and eyes open wider to whole crazy world. What words could I say to small one that plants funny looks on her face, laughs silly and hunts for dark chocolate in closed cupboard? Garnering up all wisdom gleaned, squeezing eyes shut in super-concentration, the word balloon above my head shines like rescuers flashlight aimed straight at the missing. If you ever get lost, you will be found. Glancing once again, I take in her wide grin and sparkling eyes. If you can, try not to ever leave home. But in case you do, remember, the beam of His light will find you always, leading you safely back. When her face masks comical and inexperienced words tumble forth all novel and pure, innocent child please stay in that place. Don't ever leave that funny self behind or sell the laughter for sake of pleasing, don't loose sight of what you love, and chocolate is sweet and tastes like heaven. I build that story inside, a storage war of words that glimmer with truth, that childlike faith is what keeps feet planted on home ground.

And here is the secret I have learned, practiced and penned, the giving thanks, for nothing and everything, for pain and sorrow, lost toys, Doc McStuffin and birthday parties. Giving thanks in all will settle your fears, calm your elfin heart, and keep you on path if you have only one shoe. Thank you God, for this precious one and maybe sometime I will tell her myself what I heard the day of her birthday, what the word balloon had to say and the love that ticks in my heart for toddler girl.

#103 Skyping with granddaughter on her second birthday

Count the graces, start over and count again. As legs grow longer, feet rooted deep in truth, ready yourself for every chance to give those gifts away. And don't ever forget, this is who you truly are; You are loved.