The Chin-Strummer

For 14 of my nearly 40 years I have been blessed by my firstborn, Boy 1. From the very beginning Boy 1 has made his unique personality known: in utero snapshots often showed him strumming his chin as if deep in thought. A teacher once likened him to still waters that run deep and time outs never worked for he would simply sit in a corner and ponder.

A tender and compassionate heart pairs itself in Boy 1 with a strong desire to benefit the Kingdom of God on earth. A few years ago Boy 1 bought a bunch of stickers and began giving them out to younger kids he came across in the hallways of our church building. Another time he gave his entire savings (about $50 at the time) to buy school textbooks for some children who could not buy their own. Many small and hidden acts of loving service have always been a part of Boy 1's quiet stroll through this world.

In the midst of Boy 1's serious outlook on life runs a marvelous sense of humor and a love for the silly and absurd. And the love he holds for his brother, though appropriately well-masked by sarcasm and acts of aggravation, shows the depth of his heart.

Boy 1 grows evermore fascinating with each passing day. I am blessed beyond measure to be mom to this chin-strumming, seriously sarcastic and silly, loving deep thinker.