11-21-07 From Kevin

I'm saying this to relieve a lot of you. You really, really FEEL for your kid(s). You ache for them, in ways you can't even explain. You worry about them, in detailed, specific ways. Not in just a fretting/overprotective, unhealthy way, but in a way that aches at the beauty of a rainbow, a Fall tree decked out in red, a sea or mountain view...

You almost feel...like you must be ridiculous. Are you just...too much?!

There is some other family, some Mom or Dad, with a kid or kids, and they just seem, I don't know, easy. They don't stress about all the concerns and cares you have. They don't find themselves (you know it) nearly dumbstruck with concern for their kids welfare. Or ready to weep at the preciousness of a moment when their kid is just...perfect. A baby's smile or a toddler's words or a young kids generous heart.

I'm not going to write a novel, you know it if this is you.

Here's the deal...you are not nuts, and you are not alone. You are just...rare. In our world today, focused on progress and status and comfort seeking...parenthood isn't valued much. When was the last time you saw a headline anywhere, praising someone for loving their kids, or even spouse...in a sacrificial or spiritual or priority...way?!

And not to diss anyone, we are just addicted to work and wealth and busyness and...life! People don't have time to dwell on the astounding responsibility and raw wonder of parenthood and kids.

But for those of you who recognize that moment, when the world stops at the amazing, truly awe-some reality of your kid, and your role in their lives...this is for you.

Relish it. Savor it. Take a picture. Take a video. Write about it. Or just shed a tear and stamp it on your heart.

And know...you're not alone. You're not nuts. You are a parent, feeling what you should. Love em' to pieces.

*The pic is of my Canyon a couple days ago; leave him unattended outside for a moment and this is what happens. What the heck motivates a kid to do that? I'm not even sure how he achieve this state of being. But my gosh, that's something.