There’s something almost miraculous about raising a child into adulthood. Looking back over years of teaching, directing, feeding, clothing, disciplining, loving, laughing and crying, I can see the hand of God guiding me.
The fact that this is the third 18th birthday our family has celebrated is just crazy. It doesn’t seem possible for time to be passing so quickly. To be honest, I wasn’t sure this one would make it to see this day. I’m thankful he did, but know it is only by the grace of God.
He’s fearless. Which makes him dangerous. He’s curious and not always cautious in seeking answers as to how things work or how far something can be pushed to its limit. He’s beyond hard working, and we’ve had many ER visits to patch up work injuries. He’s so bright and creative. And so very kind, yet snarky and funny and sensitive in ways that surprise me and still bring me to tears.
He towers over me now but I can still feel his small body nestled in my arms as I rocked him to sleep. All those years ago I prayed as I watched him sleep that God would use him in a beautiful way. I’ve watched as he’s grown up in a world that seeks to pull him away and as this day drew closer I pleaded by with God for him to remain strong in his faith as he sets off into adulthood.
The craziest part about parenting is that those early days filled with sleepless nights, frustration, teething, tantrums, and such are nothing compared to this feeling of “have I done enough?” “Is he ready?” “Father please guide him.” Their dad and I have raised our kiddos to be strong, independent young people, and we are proud of their individuality. But that feeling, the one deep down, that knowledge that they are now responsible for themselves and accountable to God can be scary and the only thing I can do is pray, as I lay them before God and trust Him.
This kid has big plans and I can’t wait to cheer him in as he seeks to make those dreams a reality. Happy 18 Ben, I love ya kid.
