I sat and watched as tears flowed down his tender face as he watched his older brother remember his Uncle.  His older brother stood tall, spoke with grace and tenderness about the sweet memories he had with his Tio, yet the tears flowed uncontrollably.  I sat quietly as the tears streamed down my face for the soul-pain and heartache they were experiencing.

 It was palpable.

I knew, and I know the loss of their Tio will be a marked moment in their young lives.  They will be all the stronger and confident for having known and experienced an unconditional love that they in return gave to him.

My sons are eight years apart, not by choice, but by God’s design.  They are completely different.  One came out of the womb with a strong mind and will and the other came out quiet and tender.  One was 6 weeks early, the other two months early.  One has dark brown hair, the other lighter brown hair.  One is muscular and has a very sculpted physique, the other is long and lean still growing into his definition.  One loves reading and debating.  The other loves art, painting and making you laugh.

As different as they are, this weekend they proved they are very much the same.  Their hearts are full of compassion and love.  I witnessed tenderness, compassion, empathy, respect, and honor emanate from their young lives.  I saw young men freely hug the elderly, assist and laugh with everyone and anyone that would come to pay their respects for their loss.

We sat and admired from afar as they manage their own grief and watched them laugh out loud and dance with their Titi.  Love, love came through their souls though they were weighted with sorrow.  They know that joy will come in the morning.  We taught them that. We taught them to love each other and others.  We taught them to respect themselves and others.

Though we have a long road ahead of parenting, this moment and detour warmed a mother’s heart.  My prayer of having children that cared for others and loved deeply was answered in that very moment.

Lesson –

Don’t overlook the teachable moments with the children in your life.  One day you see the application of the lessons taught. Don’t give up on our kids.   

“Til Tuesday