Happy Birthday, Teenager

It's hard to believe this day is here, son. Do you know that as of today, half our children are teens? It's a different phase of life, for sure--for us, as well as you!

You've seemed like a teen for awhile now, though. Your quiet personality makes you seem older than you are--and you truly are mature and responsible for your age, with strong gifts of mercy and compassion. It's been a joy to watch you grow up, from adorable, deep-blue-eyed toddler ("with the hair"), to handsome, shaggy-haired, baby-blue-eyed teen.

Though your outward appearance has changed, your inner heart has not. It has always been soft and open to your parents and to the Lord. I pray that as you become a man, it will always be so.

My son, pay attention to what I say;
listen closely to my words.

Do not let them out of your sight,
keep them within your heart;

for they are life to those who find them
and health to a man's whole body.

Above all else, guard your heart,
for it is the wellspring of life.

Put away perversity from your mouth;
keep corrupt talk far from your lips.

Let your eyes look straight ahead,
fix your gaze directly before you.

Make level paths for your feet
and take only ways that are firm.

Do not swerve to the right or the left;
keep your foot from evil.

Proverbs 4:20-27