Fences

I remember just yesterday my little two and a half year old running from one edge of the farm to the other, enjoying the thrill of life and freedom. It didn't take long for him to discover the joy of the corral and the pretend world it opened up for him.

He would play for hours in that old corral. At first, there were just 'pretend' animals but through the years the calves, sheep, pigs, and even a pony spent time in that corral. The corral was, for the most part, safe and not too far from mom or dad, should the need arise for some help. I can still see so clearly him playing with Paul and Ben and Grant and his little brother, Will.

I don't believe it was coincidence that God planted this spot for the photo session in my mind. The power of that corral hit me pretty strong that morning we took his senior pictures. I am so glad I wasn't the one behind the camera. It was all I could do to watch him climb a fence like the one that just yesterday seemed way too high for him.

As the years have so obviously flown by, I have watched my little boy with the boundless energy become a man. He's climbed alot of fences since way back then. Some of them were made of wood but many were not. Most of them were just plain fun, but a few gave him a splinter or two.

Today, he began his senior year of high school. Strangely enough, I find myself almost ferociously wanting to turn back time. To beg him, "Please, Coley, just go back one more time for me." I want to hear his little voice saying, "I love you infinity, can't start over" one more time! But in the next heartbeat, I know that's not what I truly want. There is a bright and beautiful world out there thanks to his knowledge of Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. I am excited for all the brand new fences he's yet to climb. And I anxiously await all God has for him.

Yet, even though my genuine excitement overpowers the useless wishing, I will always, always, always, be thankful for yesterday and the complete blessing of having my son in my life...

Son, you outgrew my lap, but never my heart. ~Author Unknown