Watching our oldest son Stephen grow into a young man has been both a wonderful joy and a painful challenge and reality. How did this little newborn that I lifted heavenward at birth in a prayer of dedication to Jesus Christ grow so fast and come so far in such a short time? Where did this facial hair, deep voice, amazing creativity, and stubborn independent thinking come from? I know I can't blame it all on his mom, so what's a man to do? Who gave him permission to grow up so fast and become his own person who seems to need us less and less?
Honestly, I am laughing and crying as I consider these questions. I am so proud of this young man who bears my name and oozes confidence, personality and talent. I know Stephen's future is bright with a number of career options and opportunities looming in front of him as they tempt him to test his wings and fly.
As he goes off to Seattle in the Fall to attend THE GENERATION INTERN PROGRAM at The City Church in Kirkland, Washington, I find myself hoping we have done our job as parents in an honorable way and that Stephen will have the tools necessary to grow and mature as a follower of Jesus Christ in the real world. Stephen, we are so proud of you and look forward to watching you become the man that God has ordained you to be. Stretch out those wings and fly high and true. The Lord is with you!
Currently we are in Southern California hangin' with Peggy's family and experiencing the many
generational blessings of a mostly intact family! Peggy hails from a large Roman Catholic family of 11 children, being the perfect #7 in the birth order. Though her family has its fair share of dysfunction and problems, it is truly an amazing experience to be a part of their get-togethers. With babies, toddlers, kids, teens, young marrieds, cousins, uncles, aunts, brothers, sisters, moms, dads and grandparents, it is almost impossible to feel left out in any way. The energy, laughter, love and good arguments (um, debates) are a privilege to be a part of.
Nana and Pop as we call them, have bequeathed a rich heritage to all of us by simply sticking it out and staying married for 50 years. If there was ever a reason to stay married in this covenant breaking culture, it is clearly illustrated to all of us in this family every time we get together and experience the dynamic of true nitty gritty family life. Perfect? No! Redemptive? YES!!! As I always tell my wife, I sure am glad her parents didn't stop having kids after #6. Thank you Nana and Pop for being an example and model of endurance, perseverance and principle. Your reward in heaven will be great!
