"So, what do you want to be when you grow up?" Isn't that a fun question we adults like to ask little children? Little girls with answers of "a mommy, a nurse, a teacher" and little boys with answers of "a fireman, a policeman, a truck driver, a pilot," all come stereotypically to mind.
Then our little children become "big boys" and "big girls," and the answers begin to change. For many girls, "wife and mommy" remains high on the list, and praise God for that! Many begin to add a long list of different careers, though. The boys are beginning to show interest in the larger world around them, and their answers broaden accordingly.
Finally, as we hit the years of homeschool high school, where our family currently "resides," the sweet, entertaining question of yesteryear takes on a sense of urgency, especially with sons. In the conservative Christian home, the role of a full-time wife and mother--a "keeper at home"--is prized. But it doesn't happen without a husband and father providing well for the needs of his family. So when we, as parents, open our eyes one morning and find that the sweet little towheaded boy now stands 6 inches taller than us and sings with a baritone voice in church, well...let's just say it can take your breath away!
It has always been my desire that my sons do what their daddy does. No, I don't mean that they follow in his career footsteps of becoming an architect. What I do mean is that I desire them to love their careers as much as he loves his. I want them to do what they are passionate about.
For my oldest son, Bryan, who is now 17, it has led us down a path that we never would have imagined on our own! It has been a journey of, "there's no way...," some fear and trepidation, and ultimately trusting in God to completely lead the way; and He has not only done His part, but has transformed me and taught me what is truly important in life. One of my favorite prayers now is this one: "Father, you're in the driver's seat...I have no idea how this can happen. But You've put this desire in Bryan's heart, so if it's Your will for him, I ask you to just drop it in my lap, because I truly do not know what to do next!" When God answers a prayer like that, it changes you! Over time, our concerns have melted away, and we...alongside our son...are really excited about the possibilities and the future ahead of him. His will be a life that is the polar opposite of our crazy, suburban-Chicago existence. And I believe he will be blessed.
For now, it is approaching dinnertime at our home, so I'll leave off here, and will pick up the story next time! May God bless you, and please say "hello" so I can get to know you!
