Charles de Gaulle Airport, April, 2013. Must be all grown up now.
Young JS stopped to play with Red on his way home from the school bus stop with his mom three days ago. I told him, “I have a Christmas present for you, and I wish I was carrying it right now.” “For me?” “For you. And you don’t have to wait ‘til the Big Day to open it.” The surprise and delight shone on his face, but we all agreed we had plenty of time to bring it. Such a wonderful child! Every year I eagerly anticipate receiving his picture on the family card, this year he’s clad in a yellow and green elf costume. His photos smile at me all year from my refrigerator door.
So I was impatient to deliver his gift, but no one was home on the first attempt the next night, icy and cold (I said I was impatient). Success yesterday, also in cold darkness, but not stormy! My brother phoned and I answered my Dick Tracy watch just as J’s dad came to the door, so I kerfluffled an explanation of my presence to both men, including that A and Red were waiting for me in our car at the end of the driveway for a trip to pick up dinner. Bro hung up, of course, and dad called J to the door. We exchanged happy greetings, and I handed him a big purple bag.
A sweet wordless moment, then he flung his arms around my neck. What an unexpected gift to me, dear boy!
Lord, thank you for the wonderful presence of children. Yes, I sometimes try to make you my Santa Claus God, which I admit is inappropriate. But this time I ask you to bless all the children in world. Too many loving young hearts suffer things I prefer to shove out of my thoughts. Yet I know you hold it all, and I pray for your help for all of them. IJN
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