Today, Owen had a birthday party to attend. We usually make an effort provide fun for the child who doesn't have a birthday party. Upon being asked what he wanted to do, Alex said, "Play some Wii." I said, "Well, Alex . . . you need to clean the house, do the laundry, and drive to Minnesota to buy a new car." He said, "Well, Dad, if I drive to Minnesota, I'll get stopped by the police." Almost as if the kid thought he really needed to do this thing. With the temps in the 70s (noting this for our PA guests) Alex shot baskets, rode his bike, and played with friends. The house is clean enough, and who knows what to do about a car?!?!?
Beyond that, I found myself holding back tears a couple times today.
* Our pastor talked about how so many of us live the "sit on the couch" life. We might put a check mark by many of the things we believe, but it's not just a check. God isn't telling us "check"; he's telling us "go". I can put a check mark by a many things. Beautiful wife. Beautiful children. Good house. Two vehicles. Even a dog. What am I doing? I do a great deal, and yet . . . . . . suffering and pain in Japan, Libya, Afganistan . . . life is bigger than us or our little daily goings-on. I am so pleased to be connected to you, but life is bigger.
* I opened a meltaway coffeecake from Jaarsma Bakery in Pella today -- purchased after a track meet at Central College. As I placed it on a plate and cut it, I truly felt the presence of my mom and dad. It was powerful. Such a little thing. But it meant I called them and left a message in which I had a hard time finishing what I had to say.
* I read of some folks who believe the world will end in May -- or maybe December. Every time I read stuff like that, I think of the DM Register article in 1992 about the world ending on my friend Drew's birthday. Yes . . . the world was to end on Oct. 28, 1992. We're still here.
* Owen was having a hard time sleeping after listening to the first chapter of the first Harry Potter book. As I held him in my arms, I played guitar and made up a song. He was asleep in no time. I pray I remember it.
Sometimes, when you recall a tiny little event, you are forced to face your mortality.
Difficult though it may be, it is beautiful.
Remember. . .
I am not sure where to start with this one. I guess I will say my thoughts in order of them occurring to me. First--nice post, I like the sentimental insight. Second, if men have their period, Matt is having his now. Third, just because its 70 degrees on the first day of spring in Iowa, it hardly makes up for the sub-zero temperatures that make certain parts of the anatomy uncomfortable half the year. Fourth, how can a blog this deep and profound actual have the title "other tidbits" in it!?
ReplyDeleteOK, that was the first impression, but actually all joking aside, the blog was good. I do understand it, I agree with it, well written, well received.