Grateful

I was just reading a friend's blog and was touched, deeply, by something I haven't really thought about for a while. Lately, the "craziness" of life has thrown me off -- too off. I feel like I am focused too much on things that don't really matter which is, in turn, taking my focus from all that does really matter. I am grateful for this friend who has helped to bring me back.


They suffered a tragedy in their family several months ago and her perspective and thoughts on said event are inspiring and gratitude-inducing.


Tonight, she re-inspired a basic and deep gratitude for being a mother, but not just any mother, a mother to Charlie and Lucy. I have the profound privilege of knowing, loving, teaching, and guiding these precious little ones while they are here on earth. I get to be a witness to their lives. I am so grateful.


I'm so grateful that I get to wipe away Charlie's tears. That its me he asks for when something is making him nervous. That I get to hear his giggles and joys. That he wants me to hold him -- and that I get to hold him.


I am so grateful that I get to run my fingers through Lucy's hair. Whisper to her that "its okay, Baby Girl" when she is sad. Carry her around the house with me. That I get to look into her eyes, and see her smile.


Our friend won't get to these things with her baby in this life. And I get to.


This is one of those times when the word "gratitude" is beyond inadequate. But it is the only word I have, so I will use it.


I AM GRATEFUL.

I am grateful to be a mother.

And I pray I don't ever forget it.