The boy was in charge! He knew exactly what he wanted to do. He was going to do it. His eyes spoke of his determination. He posture told of great resolve. No obstacles were going to change his four-year-old body that was on a mission.
I worry about kids that confident. They do not know what they do not know. Danger in any form is beyond their line of sight.
Who was his safety net?
As I considered stepping in, out of the corner stepped a grandparent. His command was obvious! It was an example in parenting that I wish I had been open to decades ago.
Grandfather supported the boy’s ambitions yet always remained in control.
The boy clearly relished his grandfather’s trust, giving him respect in return.
The combination was incredible to watch. As things were about to shift into chaos, grandfather would offer a gentle touch. As danger shifted from possible to likely, grandfather shared a word. Neither was ever rushed. It was as if grandfather was living in and through the life of his grandson.
It was a living story playing out in front of me. Generations were working across the divide, sharing the journey, and encouraging each other. Grandfather knew this was a special moment. He was savoring every one, reveling in the acts of living. The boy knew he was in safe hands. With this, he pushed life’s boundaries.
To each person that played this role in my childhood; thank-you. I hope you realized how important your gift was then and now to me.
To Dad and Mom; thank-you. The extensions of you in my life remind me of the gifts you continue to share. Older or younger, you found Timothy to help. Paul’s action recreated in my life; “This is why I sent Timothy to you earlier. He is also my dear son, and true to the Master. He will refresh your memory on the instructions I regularly give all the churches on the way of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 4.17)
The story continues. It is our turn to write.
