M.O.M.

Parker called just a few moments ago. I haven’t heard from him for, let’s see, about 11 days now? He and Carrie, his sister, have been participating in a church camp that is sponsored by their father’s church. He called me to tell me that he had been baptized on Sunday. This made me very happy and I was glad for the wonderful news.

I asked him, “Why didn’t you call me on Sunday and let me know? I would have liked to have been there.”

“Well”, he says plainly, “I was busy.”

However, being the M.O.M. (Multi-sensual Observant Monitor) that I am, I suspect that he was calling to touch base with me because his birthday is in three days. On August 5th my “baby” will be 13 years old. Parker had ambiguous feelings about leaving home for a two week event because of the timing of it. You know, his birthday. He said that he didn’t want to be gone on his birthday. *sigh*

Parker plays recreational soccer and has played for several years in the older age groups. I think he has done very well, especially this past year. This spring he was much smaller than the other players; more so than usual because they were all 14 years old (some a bit older) and he was only 12. Their team did very well in their division and won first place this past spring season. The kids were so excited and happy.

All parents are proud of their children. Even when they screw up they are proud of their children. But that’s what makes parents special. Unconditional love overflows from the parent to the child. That acceptance, which is needed by all mankind, cannot be replaced.

later…