Tender Hearted

One of the greatest joys of being a parent is when I get a glimpse of my own child showing compassion for others.  I want my children to have a heart like Jesus, and admittedly there are times when I try to force it into them.  But the truly sweet moments are when they show compassion all on their own.

We have taken our children to Africa.  They have seen the poor, the hungry, the homeless.  They have been to "street church" where we handed out bowls of rice and beans to people wearing filthy rags for clothing.  But it has been 3.5 years and their memories are fading (Dane's are gone, but Genevieve still has some). We talk regularly about those without food, clean water, homes, or even parents to care for them.  I just want them to get it.  I don't want to raise another generation with a sense of entitlement.  With only selfish ambitions.  

So it is mornings like today that give me hope.    

Genevieve had turned the TV on before school in hopes to catch a cartoon before we had to leave.  But instead of Super Why coming right on, the channel was turned to a one of the promos for sponsoring children.  It showed little sick children, with the flies on their faces and bloated bellies.  

In a solemn voice she asked me "mom, are those the poor kids in Africa we talk about?".  I answered that they were.  Then I decided to go about my business getting her lunch made, and let her take it all in.  She sat and watched the program in the other room.  As we were packing up to leave she showed me a container full of change and told me that was the money for the people without food.  She then wanted to know if we had more money we could give them.  I suggested we try to raise some money to send them.  She asked "like a lemon-aid stand?"  She was referring to our failed attempt from last summer.  So I think we are all ready to try doing this again.  And thinking of other ways to raise money too.  

And that my friends, makes a mama's heart swell with pride.  Pride in a good way.  For just a moment I think all will be right in the world if this is what the next generation will be like.