Joy

I have 3 children (well 4 if you count the man I married) that when I look upon them I feel such a strong instinct to bundle them into my bosom and love on them. They recently went to Washington to visit my father without me and that visit opened a new dimension of understanding concerning the relationship between me and my  children. I am pretty much their sole parenting presence as their father works much of the time but I do not begrudge this. In the beginning as infants they were a mass of bawling, stinky flesh that nearly drowned me with their demands but by the age of two I began thoroughly enjoying these little humans. They each bring something fantastic to the table that not only enlightens but sends light shining through the universe to which they belong. I love sitting in church with them surrounding me, my arms around them. My hands touch their soft faces and run through their hair. I pull them close and whisper "I love you" and watch as they pull their characteristic faces of pure pleasure. Who would have thought that my words of affection could bring so much joy to another? Who would have thought that their mere presence would bring such joy to me? I waited at the airport like a little kid on Christmas morning, searching almost frantically for their arrival. Upon seeing them descend the escalator my being was filled with such indescribable joy that I scarce could contain. We embraced and I recognized how short my time was with these incredible creatures that I love so very much. I recognize what a gift I have and I am truly grateful.