Life Changes

At my age, most women are approaching or have already entered the dreaded "Change of Life" - menopause. Well, I haven't quite gotten "there" yet, and was dreading hitting that "mark" in life. But God decided to throw in a surprise. I became a grandmother in June. My daughter had a beautiful baby boy and my middle son had a beautiful baby girl. In the middle of September, because of circumstances in my daughter's life, the Department of Social Services decided to temporarily place my grandson, Peyton, in my home. To be honest, the first two weeks were hell. My youngest son turned 12 the day Peyton was brought to my home, so it had been a while since I had to deal with changing diapers, middle of the night feedings, and a small person that had to depend on someone else for all their basic needs. The last thing I needed, or so I thought. God knew better.
Watching this little baby, taking care of his most basic needs, and watching him discover and take such joy in the little things in life, I began to realize that I had lost sight of what was truly important in life - children, family, friends, and the little things in life. It also brought to light something I knew in the back of my mind, but I never truly comprehended - even with all our "disfunctional" characteristics and flaws, I have a wonderful family who are the most generous and supportive people in the world. And the two people responsible for that - my Mama and my Daddy. Parents teach by example, not by words, and they have definitely done that. Although my brother, sisters and I have our faults and shortcomings, none of us have achieved fame or fortune (neither of which is important), and we have our problems from time to time, my parents are responsible for creating four truly amazing adults who would give you the shirt off their backs or help anyone in need. Mother Theresa needs to make room on that pedestal for my parents.
And God, thank you for opening my eyes to what's truly important in life.