28 October 2010

Monday was Pea's Third Anniversary! It really is hard to believe it's only been three years. The more I know her, the more I love her. She brings a balance to our family. Her sweet, gentle, loving spirit is the epitome of I Peter 3:4: "You should be known for the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God." It's precious to me too! I feel very strongly that this family needed this girl at least as much as the girl needed us. In fact, I'm convinced that *I* need this girl.

Many years ago a friend and mentor told me that children are a mirror given by God to show you what you are really like. I think that's very true in Punk's case. He is very like me and I see all my weakness is living color in him. And the strengths too. Pea, though, Pea often shows me what I should be, what I want to be.

Sunday our family went to one of the local schools in a poorer area of town and helped to remove vines from a chain-link fence. The kiddinkies were happy to help, sort of competing to see who could pull out the longest vine. But, soon, all the long, easy pieces were out. What remained were terribly tenacious vines that were impossibly wound around the fence. Pea got in there and patiently unwound them one at a time. It was painstaking work which required focus and dedication I've never seen in a five-year-old. She did it with a happy heart, no complaining, no taking breaks. I didn't have to cajole her into it, she just stood next to me and worked away. Her brother was goofing around nearby, but even that did not distract her from the task she had set herself to. I was humbled and amazed by her example.

I cannot imagine my family without her. I cannot imagine my life without her. Thank you, God, for bringing this light to our lives!