As I knelt down by my grandson's bed tonight I prayed over him, just as I pray for my other grandchildren. I pray for them just as I did for their mommas as they were growing up.
As the age of 60 is seeming younger and younger, I realize how much I am aging. I can get depressed by the changes ahead but sometimes I just sit in gratitude for the lessons each one of my grey hairs represent. Over the years I have learned a few lessons the hard way and I have certainly shed a tear or two but I remain grateful. I am grateful for the summits I have reached, for the view at the top of the mountain, and the many people that have walked the journey with me.
I think of the miracle of the butterfly and its metamorphic change from a caterpillar. It will have to struggle as it breaks out of the cocoon and it will have to do it on its own to be strong enough to fly. So it is with our children and grandchildren.
Many times over the years I have prayed and found peace in, Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." Tonight I am thinking about all those years of prayers and how worth it they were. Not only do I see the faith of many generations growing to maturity in my children but I also see the expression of love God placed on my family generations ago.
My family began participating in marches on Washington in the early 60's to fight for the rights of others. My parents were both pastors and blessed our home with a variety of people. My father later worked for Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and my mother started a program for women that had been incarcerated so they could have a new start in life. Social justice was part of the DNA of our family.
My oldest brother and his wife have served the homeless over the years. My middle brother and his wife serve the homeless, the mentally ill, and the incarcerated. My youngest brother and his wife encouraged the chronically ill. My husband and I support and encourage those affected by a special need or disability.
Now I am seeing these genes come to fruition in my children and I couldn't be prouder. My oldest daughter received an award tonight from the American Public Health Association for her work in passing ordinances for safe working conditions. My younger daughter is working for Engender Health. She is sharing her story to make a difference in the lives of young people and to empower them for their future.
I share all of this to encourage parents. Parenting is tough and as you kneel by your child's bed you wonder how it will all turn out. You have a million and one decisions to make and you know you don't have all of the answers.
A wise military man once told me, "You have to be consistent, persistent, and pray!" I have held onto those words for 15 years now and have shared them many times. Whether you have child that is four months old or 20 years old, keep these words in mind.
Remember your DNA is in your children. The lessons you have taught them are in their minds. The faith you have shared will give them comfort and strength. Your training will stay with them.
In addition, don't be afraid of letting your children teach you. As culture and technology have changed, I have relied heavily on my children and they have taught me many great things. Embrace those sweet babies, those teenagers and young adults, we have so much to learn from one another.
