Everything is precious.

Everything is precious.
We had home group tonight and one of our sweet friends shared the most amazing story.
Last week was his son's, who had passed away a few years ago, 24th birthday. On this day he was cleaning out a box of books and found a leather bound journal. He didn't recognize nor remember having it until he began flipping through its mostly blank pages. At the back was a page of two tic-tac-toe games that he remembers playing trying to keep his son occupied during church. Another page had a drawing of a truck. He decided to start writing in the journal and a few days later discovered a page in the middle. It was a drawing of a face and underneath it said this, "I love you Dad. Keep doing your work and keep loving God. I love you." (I can't remember the words exactly.)
As he shared this story my eyes welled up with tears. Tears of sadness for a parent grieving a child. Tears of amazement at this unexpected discovery 14 years later. Tears of sweetness that our God is comforting this Daddy, giving him a sweet reminder that he is loved. That He is there. That He remembers.
Everything is precious. Each moment with our kids is a gift. Each day watching them grow is priceless. Every scribble on a piece of paper. Every smile and kiss. Every bedtime prayer. Every question. These are the moments that we get to enjoy. The smallest unremarkable moment becomes invaluable. What was done to occupy becomes an aid in healing. Memories. Joy.
I am blessed by this reminder that every second is undeserved. There's enough going on today without worrying about what tomorrow brings. If I'm not careful I am going to lose this moment. This time in our lives when my babies are still babies. It's gone by quicker than I ever expected and I wish it would slow down.
I can't imagine the pain this kind of loss brings. I am grateful this story was told tonight in my home. I am thankful for another reminder from God that our children are a precious gift.
Thank you Lord, thank you for my boys. Thank you for the treasure of being Gunnar and Remy's mama.