Cynthia's Cyberspace

Back to school, three simple words that carry so much anticipation for so many. Parents wait with bated breath as the calendar moves agonizingly slowly towards September. Children fantasize about stopping the flow of sand in the hourglass, making time stand still.

There is an office supply store that shows the same commercial every year that epitomizes the phenomenon of “Back to School Fever”.  A father gleefully pushes a shopping cart through the store grabbing randomly at assorted back to school paraphernalia and tossing it into the cart to the tune “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”.

As dear daddy runs through the store with a goofy smile of victory, his offspring move slowly behind him with scowls of disgust, undoubtedly planning the demise of their giddy father.  It is definitely one of those “if looks could kill” moments that all parents experience from their children occasionally, that look that says “if only I had the guts and stupidity…then I’d really tell you off!”

I can’t identify with the joy the father feels. I love having my Ryan home with me. He is a huge help with the smaller children. Without ever complaining he works alongside me at home, participates with us wholeheartedly at preschool, assists the therapists as needed and lovingly tends to his younger brothers and sister.

I won’t be dancing down the aisles when school resumes. I’ll be missing my loyal helper, chief entertainment officer and right hand man. As much as I will miss Ry, the little ones will miss him even more. Their brother brings a delicate balance of love, fun and direction.  He intervenes when mama has reached the end of her rope and always manages to put a smile on my face, even when I feel too tired to stand up.  Ryan epitomizes the following passage in our household and for his servant’s heart I am truly grateful. I love you dear son.

 “Colossians 3:22-3:24”

22Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. 23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

New International Version (NIV)

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