Unabashed bragging about my daughter…

I am feeling excited and blessed.  People generally characterize life on the mission field as one of sacrifice, and I guess that’s true to some extent, but there are so many amazing joys that go along with it!  And besides, you make sacrifices no matter where you are or what you are doing, it’s just a matter of what you choose to sacrifice.

I am really enjoying my time with Maddie right now as Mark and Michal are in Ghana picking up his parents from the airport.  Maddie is at such a fun age, and I love how sweet and helpful she is.  She turns 12 this month, and I find myself surprised at how grown up she is in so many ways.  She has a very clever and sophisticated sense of humor as well as a candor that is very endearing.  She embraces life in Africa and is willing to try all of the things that come along with it.  She is bravely preparing herself for the imminent departure of the only American friend her age in Kara.  She accepts responsibility with a cheerful heart.  She seeks contentment in the blessings she has, not in the constant striving for something new.

I think that it is a beautiful gift that God has created something sweet in every stage of childhood.  We bemoan the growing up of our children because every accomplishment on their part is an indication of the growing independence that will eventually steal them from us.  However, I am amazed and thrilled at what God is doing in the life of my not-so-little girl, and it is a great joy to take part in that growing with her!

January 19, 2011. Uncategorized.