Wednesday, May 5, 2010

An Older Parent's Joy

There are many things that bring joy to us older parents:
--Seeing our children succeed in their chosen profession
--Celebrating when our children overcome life's challenges
--Watching our children grow and mature into responsible adults

Last night was one such joyful moment.  Our grandson, Nolan, was baptized and confirmed by his father, Damon, our son.  There was so much about the service that brought us great joy:
--Our son able to perform this eternal ordinance for his son
--Our daughter-in-law, Amy, giving a wonderful talk on the Holy Ghost that spoke to all ages and preparing take-away-refreshments that went along with the message in a fun and tasty way
--The large number of people who came to support Nolan--probably around 75, more than half children
--Damon, Amy and all five of their children singing "Families Can Be Together Forever"...and radiating the faith and love that will ensure it will be true for them
--Being honored to give the baptism talk at Nolan's request
--Watching our granddaughters, Elli and Emma, lead the music and give the opening prayer, respectively
--Melba being able to attend and seeing the joy in her eyes and hearing her love for family choke her up as she gave the closing prayer
--Telling Damon and Amy's non-LDS friend, Lacy, how much I appreciated the support he and his wife give to our kids--and having him respond with "Oh, they have enriched my life in so many, many ways"
--Feeling the truth of the closing song "I Feel My Savior's Love"

Damon and Amy, you're doing a great job!