I watch her run out of the car each morning - hair flying, backpack bouncing. I call out to her, "See you! Would always want to be you!" She turns back, huge grin, and says, "I wouldn't want to be you!" I laugh.
Of course not.
She can only be uniquely HER. Black shorts, worn t-shirt, messy hair but she doesn't care. She knows her beauty.
I watch her run around the corner to the school and I sit for just a moment, in awe. I'm in awe of this girl who loves freely and only expects the best of people. I'm in awe of her enthusiasm and certainty of her place in this crazy world.
I watch him walk into the building - slow and steady, never too eager or too excited but he keeps on walking. I wait a moment longer than perhaps I should. I wonder.....will he have fun? Will he find friends? Will he be ok?
I hold my breath......this one a bit more complicated than the last.
He's proud and cautious, careful with his words and actions. He's a fierce competitor and doesn't often allow for mistakes - his own or others. But oh how he makes me laugh and how my heart swells when he discusses with us his feelings, his day, his observations about life.
I watch him disappear into the doors and I sit for just a moment, in awe. I'm in awe of this boy who willing walks into the unknown and only expects the best of himself. I'm in awe of his awareness of who he is and who he isn't as he navigates his place in this crazy world.
I watch her walk onstage - poised and graceful in her black leotard and pink tights. Her smile is easy and her steps assured. This usually shy and mostly quiet girl comes alive with feet encased in pointe shoes and a light shining her way. My eyes follow her every practiced move.
I cry. I always do.
She's beauty and freedom as she dances across the stage.
I watch her dance and I sit for just a moment, in awe. I'm in awe of this girl who finds peace on a stage in front of so many. I'm in awe of the respect that she garners from so many through her willingness to work hard and always, always choosing kindness. She's one to watch, this girl of ours, as she dances through this crazy world.
And with the not so little ones gone, I walk into my own building.....always finishing a call with a friend. A way to start the day with a smile and most often a laugh. I call out a hello to Nancy and make my way up the stairs.
It's a new day......in so many ways.
And I can't help but wonder.......what does He see?
I sit for just a moment and let His awe and wonder wash over me. His approval chasing away my fear and doubts. His love gently covering over my hurt and wounds. His grace uncovering the age old lies that creep in and I let His truth settle upon my heart. And I begin to see myself as He sees me - a beloved daughter walking, running and dancing through this crazy world.
As you walk in to buildings, schools and homes.......sometimes dancing, sometimes running or walking slowly towards the life you lead........allow for a moment to sit in awe. In awe of the One who created you, who loves you, who watches you each moment of the day. Allow yourself to be seen, to be known by the One who loves you best, who sees in you strength and beauty, courage and tenacity, perseverance and faithfulness as you make your way in this crazy world.
