At first, it was hard for me to adjust to this new life of busy activity schedules. I may have grumbled a few times *ahem*. But when you get to see the end product, it makes it all worth it. I've really been learning that we aren't made to be idle (unless in a season of rest, of course), but to do good works. My kids have been doing just that in their activities. God has given them a small section of the world to be salt and light in, and staying at home each night being comfortable, is like keeping the salt in the salt shaker, and the light under a bowl.
I'm working on this. I'm learning...maybe slowly? I'm growing, thankfully. I'm thankful to see Him work through my kids.
First, The Girl. She was recently Gaston in a shortened version of Beauty and the Beast. At first, she was very reluctant to be a boy, when clearly, she would have been a perfect fit for Beauty (HA!). However, after a short chat about developing your craft, growing and learning, and stepping outside of your comfort zone (maybe I was just talking to myself), she came around, and really gave it all she had. The result, was the best performance I have seen from her yet!
That last picture? It's my favorite. My girl is getting a "Tommy Award". Not for her performance, but for the way she helped others, was committed to learning, helped out when needed, and was an example of responsibility and respect.
I think my heart expanded out of my chest in that moment. My girl. Salt and light in her small corner of the world.
Next, The Little Man. As you can tell from his "Thankfuls" he's got a one-track mind for basketball these days. He was asked by some friends at school to join a basketball team at the rec center in our community. Usually, we only play basketball for one season through Upward sports. We have thoroughly enjoyed this organization not just because of friends we get to play with, but also for the Christ-like characteristics that they instill and acknowledge even before the child's basketball skills (or lack thereof). So, the rec team with school friends was new to us, but exciting. It was also one. more. thing. to add to the list of things to get done during the week and weekend, but we thought the importance of continuing to build friendships outside of the classroom with his classmates was important.
When he came home from the first practice a bit miffed, I was a little concerned. He was upset that there seemed to be a bunch of "ball hogs" and no one played together well. Knowing the first day of practice with a new team can be a bit challenging, I encouraged him to keep with it, and try to do what he knows how to do, and maybe the others will catch on in time. Now, my boy is NOT the best player on the team, but I have loved watching him play. I have seen him a few times pass the ball off to someone else when the shot was clearly his. Instead of taking an easy shot and running up his points, he passes the ball off. Soon after, others started doing the same. It may have been a coincidence in timing with what the coach was teaching as well, but I love watching him think of others before himself. He may not be the most aggressive player on the team (someone said, "Once that boy gets a bit more aggressive, he'll be an awesome player."), but he values others feelings above the things that the world values. I like him like that. Salt and light. In his small corner of the world.
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."--Jesus, Matthew 5:13-16
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