Joyous

Since JD was first born he has had a smile on his sweet face.  Recently, we went to see Grandma perform in the choir at church.  JD, Dad and I filled with our many different activities sat in the second to last pew on the end (we made some poor women move over so we could easily exit).

I would love to say that I have been diligent about taking JD to church but I haven't.  Since birth we have probably averaged 4-6 church services a year.  To say he "understands" how to behave in church would be a grave misunderstanding.  However, in the last two months we have gone to church 3 times--yes that is almost every other week so he is getting a much better understanding.  JD even asks about church and talks about it as an "adventure."

This particular Sunday, JD wasn't so excited to head to church but we convinced him there would be good music and Grandma would be singing so he managed to pull it together.  We sat down and he started to smile, laugh and cheer every time a song finished.  Trying to be respectful of those around us,  we tried to quietly whisper that he "needed to be quiet" and just listen to the music.  Finally, after several "yeah grandmas" "whohoos" he looked up at us and said "I'm ready to go."  So, Dad took JD and they went outside while I sat and listened to the end of the service.

As I was loading up the bag of about 100 different activities we had packed.  The couple behind me stopped to share how wonderful they thought it was that our son was so "joyous in the house of the Lord."  They shared how he made them smile and really brought joy to them just by watching him enjoy himself so much in church.

I realized that in fact, that's what JD has done for my outlook on life.  He has brought Joy into everything from waking up in the morning, to a snack, to reading the same book for the 100th time.  It's just fun when he is laughing, cheering and smiling.

I am so thankful he is my son.  I am thankful that he spreads joy wherever he goes, I am thankful that for each moment with him.  And I can only hope that he positive spirit continues for the rest of his life.  It will make him a force and allow him to change the world.