full of spirit

Last weekend our good friends Chris and Tony had us over for dinner. We dined on the best pasta and homemade sauce I've seriously ever had. Note to self: I must obtain secret family recipe immediately. I so regret not snapping a photo of the awesome holiday place settings when I had the chance. Blerg. Chris was responsible for the Santa themed spread, and is the mother of two beautiful girls, Isabella and Ava. These kids are so well mannered, it's straight out of a how-to parenting guide. I'm serious. Not to mention, they are too cute for words.

The girls joined us for a little post-dinner conversation, and Ava asked to hold Colden. Nearly six, this dimpled kindergartner is an absolute natural. She knew to tip Colden upright when he let out a little cough, and she lovingly patted him on the back to reassure him she was there to soothe. I shouldn't have been surprised, but I couldn't believe how at ease they both were with each other.

I'm not sure what it is about little ones, but they have such unspoiled, gentle spirits. Prior to having a baby, I never thought too much about a child's spirit. I suppose it's not something anyone thinks about until you stare at your flesh and blood and wonder how you got so lucky to receive something so beautiful.

In talking with Chris about the sweetness found only in babies and little children, she revealed the most beautiful perspective. As she put it, babies are born whole and safe, completely in the arms of God. It's all they know as they enter this world. The younger they are, the closer they are to the spirit, and where they were created. As they grow and get lost in the shuffle of mankind, they potentially move away from the spirit. Awe struck at this way of thinking about our wee ones, I have adopted this perspective for my own.

Right now, my sweet Colden is still so full of spirit I can taste it. Every day I breathe in his gentle aroma and savor each and every giggle, wink, and coo. Lord, thank you so much for sending me this beautiful little boy. I hope he stays as close to the spirit for as long as possible. I want him to always hear the bell ringing, no matter how much time passes.

As I tucked my happy boy into his crib last night, I was reminded that some parents just marked the one-week anniversary of their own personal hell. Let us all never forget how truly sweet and innocent these little souls are.

Sending hope, love, and prayers to Newtown.