Where Blessings Begin

He weighs less than a pound and would fit in the palm of my hand. He is my grandson, nestled safely in the womb of my youngest daughter, Sara. Sometime in July he will be introduced to the world, but for right now he rests safely where all miracles begin.   

Today we found out that “he” is a” he”. The small black and white sonogram picture along with a hand written note from the doctor, “Congratulations, it’s a boy” was an unconventional way to learn of the sex of a baby. It was important to Sara that she and baby daddy find out together, Michael wasn't able to be with her at the doctor’s appointment so she folded the doctor’s note and waited. I wanted to peek but I didn't.

I suppose that some would say from the beginning it has been unconventional. Sara, my youngest daughter is only seventeen years old and suddenly just a few months away from being a mother. I recall the night that she nervously revealed to me that she was pregnant. I am not sure how she thought I would react to this news, but she knew that truth must always come first, a hard lesson to hold onto, but one she championed.

I remember hearing her words and silently praying that my Lord would provide me with the words I needed to respond. He did.

I told this young couple that I believe life is a gift from God. I believe that God gives this gift because He loves. God’s perfect design of a man and woman united has never changed, we have. We change the rules because it makes us feel better about ourselves. And yet with patience, grace and love, God’s breath will still fill the tiny lungs of this baby from the moment they are formed. God doesn't offer a disapproving glance or shake a finger in ridicule.  He creates life.

I told them that their lives would change. I also told my daughter that there are things that must not change. Her education increased in importance, completion is still critical and required. It will be tough, but she can do it.

I told them that there would be those that want to advice, and those that want to ridicule. Listen to one, ignore the other.

What I didn't tell her, but will do so now, is about where blessings begin.

Unconventional describes every relationship I have ventured. I am not bragging nor am I ashamed, for what came from the unconventional changed my life. The Lord blessed me with six children, Michael Eric, Jennifer Lynn, Elizabeth Clara, James Edward, Sara Rose and Joseph Tyler. Each one a blessing, each one changed my life. Each one made me a better man. 

The blessings of our children begins with news of a life growing. It continues with hearing their first cry, watching them take their first breath. The blessing grows with their first steps and their first word, their first laugh. I was blessed when they came home excited from their first day of school. I was blessed when they hit the first baseball or rode their first bike. I was blessed when they discovered boys or girls, when they fell in puppy love and then fell out again.

I was blessed when those that came before you told me that “a baby was coming”

I was blessed when you told me that you were pregnant.

I was blessed when you told me “It’s a boy!”

For you, your blessings have just begun. Hold onto every moment; remember every tear,  remember every laugh. Because one day you will look up and your baby will be all grown up.

I love you baby girl, thanks for the blessings.