A Moment in Front of the Camera

I often write about our escapades with Dani and our battle with her disabilities. I do this because I am convinced it helps others who are in the same situation. I also share about my husband and his godly wisdom, guidance, and support through all our years together. I don’t, however, speak much about our son, Drew. Though fun, intelligent, creative, and kind, Drew is actually quite shy, so out of respect I keep a lid on many things I would otherwise love to write about. It’s just something a mother must do.

His college major supports his natural tendency. Like my husband, who is a professional photographer, Drew feels most comfortable behind the camera and has thus chosen a major in film. Avoiding the front of a lens as if it were the plague, his true joy is found behind the camera, which is why getting any kind of a picture of him is akin to striking gold. We happened to hit the jackpot Easter weekend when my husband snapped a picture of him on the deck, as a result I am proud as a peahen (that’s a girl peacock). Why am I happy? Because I treasure something very special about our son Drew. His ability to communicate.

Jimmy and I will never fully know Dani due to her disabilities. She cannot talk or share her feelings and because of this we must wait until we all get to heaven to meet her fully. This privilege, however, has not been stolen from us when is comes to our son, which is why we never take it for granted. I absolutely love talking with Drew to hear how he feels, what he's planning, how he thinks, and what his opinions are. It simply fascinates me to hear him express himself and I thank God for every moment I get the honor to do so.

It's tempting to mute our children by telling them to be quiet or tune them out as we go about doing our own thing. We think they either have nothing to say or what they say is unimportant, failing to understand what a privilege it is that they can express themselves. It is something we often take for granted, at least until it's taken away.

If you haven't stopped to marvel at your child's ability to communicate, take the time to listen to them today. Pay attention to what they say and thank God for their ability to think, reason, and express themselves. It is a gift that enriches life beyond measure. Treasure every word your child says, pray for them without ceasing, and savor the moment, for one day it could all be gone.

Visit Nancy's Website: Olive Leaf Ministries