This weekend, our family will celebrate another child's birthday. It's not the fact that I have a class reunion this month, or that I'm pushing a certain milestone age myself (but not quite) that makes me feel old. But every time one of my children has a birthday, I sure feel old.
My oldest child will turn 16, a milestone eagerly awaited by most teenagers. Don't worry, the streets will still be safe. The issue of driving hasn't even made it to the table. While I say this jokingly, I come to this birthday with an apprehension different from most other parents. I don't mince words when I say there was a time I couldn't imagine how we would make it this far.
Family, close friends, and some members of our church family know some of the trials we endured. It is with great joy that I am able to share how he has moved forward.
We began our second year of homeschooling in September. The child who resisted schoolwork most of last year, asked me to spend more time teaching him this year. He told me he wants to go to a good college. The first two weeks of school were uneventful, and I held my breath. I kept waiting for the meltdown that didn't come. Instead of enjoying this time when things were rolling along smoothly, I waited for the difficulty.
After a month, I decided I could breathe a little and delight in this change. This week, Austin made this statement: "You know, I had a good Monday." (Mondays are typically our worst days.) I nodded, "Yes, I had a good Monday too. How nice is that?"
For years, I have prayed that he would "get it" - for something to click, and while he still has challenges, I rejoice in the progress he has made. I am proud of his accomplishments and have a bright hope for his future.
What will you find to celebrate today?
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