Watching people grow is fun, exciting, aging, and depressing all at the same time. The excitement and fun comes through nurturing, reliving the new experiences, and reveling in the successes. One begins to recognize, feel, and internalize just how quickly and completely this process happens. Those who were once children take on a new, independent life of their own. The results come often come through in ways their teachers never imagined!
When we talk of people growing the natural reaction drifts to children. Even if we do not have them, we find them all around us. Their antics amuse and irritate, usually at the same time. In my own life I recognize this type of growth, however, there is significant growth occurring in a wide range of areas that surrounds me.
There are the young managers growing and taking up significant new challenges with a level of maturity that defies their years. I find emerging stars with unusual talents in analysis or getting things done begin to take control of their lives and the challenges around them. I experience those on a spiritual journey with insights that nurture my own walk in ways I know only could come from God himself. I revel with the individuals that are taking control of their life, pursuing the values and priorities that they believe important.
As my two girls grow quickly into adults, I find myself enjoying most of the moments. I do find myself sensing my age more quickly than ever before, however the experience continues to wrap me in such love that I would not trade it for anything!
There is a reason for my excitement that will always offset the awareness of age. I find that God coming through in new ways that give everyone a new awareness and sense of what could be. Said another way; “There’s the root of our ancestor Jesse, breaking through the earth and growing tree tall, tall enough for everyone everywhere to see and take hope!” (Romans 15.12)
It is hope that makes the difference. To you and others, thanks!
