Double Digits and Finding Her Voice
Dear Lucy,
Your tiny cries as a newborn reminded me of the distressed mewing of a kitten. They tugged at my heart and instantly pulled me toward you with compassion and concern. A full decade later, and you are the one sensitive to the distress of others and anxious to console and comfort. Ten years of growing in empathy and kindness. Happy birthday!
So what does a typical day in the life of a double-digit birthday girl look like? Let’s just say that you prefer to join the day slowly. Breakfast choices are usually – ahem – unusual. Rice, leftovers, pasta? It works for you. Then you’re out the door to do the work of a fourth grader – learn, learn, learn. You’re a creative thinker, and hands-on is the best way to reach into your mind. After putting in the hours at school, you’re ready to be home to hang with neighbors and enjoy a little down time.
Your siblings look up to you, and you’re a great playmate to them. Sure, there are squabbles – you’re all normal, right? But that’s when some of your best inner qualities shine through. You have the heart of a peacemaker. You listen, you care, and you seek out solutions that bring down the temperature and express empathy.
These qualities are a blessing to your friendships, too. You’re silly and supportive and serving. You love to help and encourage. More and more, you’re learning to look to the truths of Scripture as you navigate relationships.
Fun stuff in the life of Lucy – Girl Scouts, soccer games on Saturdays, and kids’ ministry at your church. You love your dogs – and my dogs and the neighbors’ dogs and strangers’ dogs. Let’s just say you love dogs. 😊 Hanging with your cousins really fills your cup. You’re always up for a family adventure, either locally or at some fun vacation destination (both coasts last summer?!).
While there have been some painful moments this past year as you’ve learned from experience how to make friends, be a friend, and trust friends, you’ve also learned that you have a forever Friend in Jesus. When your tender heart is bruised or betrayed, He’s been there to comfort you and to help you be brave enough to try again.
When it’s hard to bounce back, remember this encouragement: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9) Precious ten-year-old, that baby girl with the cry of a kitten is maturing into a lioness with a heart for the hurting and a roar that defends the weak. I am so proud of you, and I wish you the very best birthday!
Always loving you with all of my heart,
Milly
