I Saw You...

"Let no one seek his own, but each one the other's well-being." 1 Corinthians 10:24

I saw you as you stood at the front of that church waiting eagerly to take my hand in yours. The love I saw in your eyes held me captive.

I saw you as you held your newborn babies close and whispered in their ear your love for them.

I saw you holding your mother's hand as she lay in that hospital bed, tears flowing freely down your cheeks as you prayed for her healing.

I saw you as you pulled yourself up out of the depression you spiraled into after she left us to be with Jesus.

I saw you as you spent countless hours on the road going from one high school gym to another so that you could give your family a little something more even after spending long hours at your day job.

I saw you as you sat by the water's edge, your boys situated on each side of you as you baited hook after hook for them, never getting a moment to sink your own line but rejoicing with them at every catch.

I saw you give up hobbies and time spent with friends because you chose your extra time to be with your family; we always were and are your first priority.

I saw you as you have loved my parents over all these years; taking them as your own.

I saw you as you spent time throwing that little white ball into the glove of each of our sons. Teaching them life lessons as I heard the ball make contact in the brown leather they held in their hand.

I saw you when you stood out in the driveway passing the basketball as they practiced endless free throws, always giving tips and hints on how to play the game you loved so much.

I saw you when you learned all you could about a game that was for gentlemen, only to then take that knowledge and pass it onto the boys hoping that one day they would feel the love for the game, and boy did they.

I saw you in the early morning hours on your knees with your face buried deep in the cushion crying out to God for your family. Being our spiritual leader and standing in the gap for each of us.

When you thought I wasn't looking....I was.

I wanted to write this for today because it's a day I have celebrated, taking place for thirty-three years now. I thank God for putting you here and for causing our paths to cross. Now I know your not perfect; there is but only One. What I am saying is I've watched and listened and witnessed God do amazing things in You and through you, and on your birthday I wanted to let you know...I saw you.

I love you & He loves you more!

Dear Lord, Thank You for the man of God you placed in front of me. Thank You for his leadership, his friendship, his love and guidance. I pray that You would strengthen him and bless him in this fifty-eighth year of his life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Happy Birthday Dana!