I am deeply overcome with emotion the day that my grandchildren are born. Tender feelings of genuine happiness come over me as I watch my adorable grandchildren being placed in the protective arms of their loving fathers. Watching the joy of happiness that each tiny little soul brought to them reminds me of what a special gift each one holds in their arms. "Hold them, love them, and protect them" are words that scream from the very depths of my soul as we all marvel at the unbelievable miracle that cuddles safely within their arms.
In this incredible moment neither father nor child is aware of the happy but turbulent days that lie ahead of them. This precious bundle of joy that he now holds close to his heart will one day grow up and begin to question his authority. For now though he/she is completely dependent upon not only his love, but his sincere dedication and utter devotion as they each prepare to examine the complex role of parenthood.
The father usually thinks his first duty as a parent is to provide the baby with all of the earthly treasures that money can buy, but if he/she were able to speak he/she would tell him the treasures that he/she longs for already lie deep within her father's heart and soul. His unfailing strength, undying faith, and gentle guidance are everything he/she needs to overcome the stubborn obstacles that he/she will meet along life's unpredictable journey.
He/she will hang on to his every word as he/she searches to find consistency in each and every one of them. His words are the very foundation that his children stand on. He/she wants him to build a strong foundation for them; one that can withstand life's ambiguous moments, the ones that destroy not only his/her dreams, but their very life as will. It is their father's trusting and loving arms that they will run to whenever the outside world creates an environment that goes against the principles and morals that he has taught and instilled.
Each child needs to be told that they are a "Gift from God," and that they are "born in His own image and likeness," Your child will challenge you but these statements must be unwavering. My daughters used to tell me that I was overbearing and overprotective. My only response when they lashed out in this way was to agree with them. I probably was overbearing and overprotective but I had been given the greatest gifts that could be bestowed on a human. They are not born with an instruction book except for the Bible and I am sure that I made mistakes. I made them unknowingly and because I thought I was doing right, there was never any question that our children held total and unconditional love from me, their earthly father and their heavenly Father.
Parents have a tremendous job ahead of them. Their job is to set the boundaries and their children's jobs are to test them. The parents must stand up against the enemy even when that means temporarily losing the "friendship" of the child. Do not let the devil rob your child of their innocence. Friends are chosen by flesh, parents are chosen by God.
Our grandson starts school Monday, it seems like yesterday he was in our arms depending on us for his every need. I feel like an old woman (I am) thinking about how quickly time flies. I ask our Father in Heaven to guide and protect him on this first day of school and the many days after that he will continue to grow and learn. The rewards of parenthood are definitely grand parenthood! Our five grandchildren are each the most precious miracle going.
Thank you Father for this undeserved blessing.
