Growing up…

I have to admit I was excited about my boys starting school. I had visions of them being the student of the month and getting the highest of grades and that they would be the teachers favorite.  I thought my boys would love school and learning like I did.  But as often happens that has not been reality.  At parent pick-up I got to hear the reality that your son has a difficult time keeping his hands to himself. He is disruptive. He talks to much and doesn’t raise his hand. At parent teacher conferences,  your son is doing (just) OK on his school work, he could be doing a little better.  Calls from the school nurse about injuries caused by my son and meeting with principals.  General displeasure about having to do homework and getting up for school. To be honest I have been disappointed by it all.

But as God often does, He began to show me what is really more important. A stranger to us, took notice of my boys after observing them on our walk home each day. An older lady in her 80’s she stopped us one day and asked me about them and complimented me on what nice boys they are and how she herself lives alone now but has twin boys of her own. When it’s not too cold she waits for them to come around the corner and gives them a treat and asks them about their day. On their birthday Twin B asked if he could share one of his left over cookies with her on our way home. It warmed my heart and I believe hers too! He has taken her pictures he’s drawn at school. Kindness and thoughtfulness from my “disruptive and talkative” son. Hugs to the school crossing guards. High fives and waives to bus drivers at the school they don’t even attend. Strangers taking notice of the friendliness and willingness of my children to share a kind moment with those that are often seen as less important.

My disappointment melted away into pride at how my boys just naturally treat other people kindly. It is really more important to me how my children treat other people than how smart they are or what awards they get at school. I want them to do well in school and I want them to learn and do their best. But I also want them to grow up showing kindness and love to all people. Then they will be living like Jesus.

Mathew 25:40

“The King will reply, ‘Truly i tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

Luke 2:52

“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”