May 3, 2011























I was quite unprepared when Taylor announced yesterday morning that it was his last day of regular college classes. Finals are next week, then college is completed. Where has the time gone? I want to soak up every last bit of time with him...I want to slow time down!! In 8 weeks he will be married and not here to offer my daily "vitamins" (hugs), or to draw me out about my day, or encourage me to keep my eyes on the Lord. I will so miss his joy, his singing around the house, his drumming and our jamming :), his counsel...his friendship. Tears mixed with joy and sadness flow as I write this. Letting go is hard- isn't it?! It's hard but it is a part of God's plan...so it is also very good. :)

A few years ago I penned some thoughts when it was Jon's last day of college and he was moving to Florida. I've rewritten it for today...for Taylor and for other mom's who are also facing the finish line.
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I'm reminiscing a lot these days as our second born is ready to graduate college and leave home to marry his beautiful Stephanie in just 8 weeks. I need to be very careful reminiscing because I'm learning that spending time wishing I could re-write history bears fruit... but not often the fruit I desire. It can sometimes produce guilt and regret. Instead, as I look back, I am looking to learn. Miri is now 13. We have many years ahead with our girl, and Lord willing, grandchildren in our future, so I pray this musing serves!

If I could turn back the clock- I would:

Hug and kiss them more!

Remind them faithfully of the promises of God all throughout life.

Always remind them that they CAN trust God even when they cannot trace Him!

When confronting their sin- I would more faithfully remind them (in kindness) how glorious Jesus is and tell them again of the love Jesus displayed on the cross for them. I would tell them that we desperately need the power of the Spirit to live this life in a manner that pleases the Lord. I would make every effort to leave them with hope and not discouragement when addressing them. I would make sure to evaluate my own heart. What is surfacing in MY heart when they sin? Am I as eager to tend to my own heart and believe the promises of God?

I would remind them more that we need to love His presence...spend time in His presence...listen to His voice while in His presence.

I’d realize that no matter how they conform on the outside- their hearts are the most important. I realize it’s so easy to spend one’s whole life focusing on the ‘frame’ and less on the picture.

I would offer them many more opportunities to serve the needy. It’s so easy in this culture to become self-focused.

I would have prayed with them and led them to scripture more often when needs arose. I fear I displayed self-sufficiency too often.

This is a big one...I would have trusted my Savior more. He has indeed proven to be oh so faithful!

By His grace!

Last day :)