In the Heart Forever

You can't pick your relatives.

Disclaimer: I'm fully aware that not all children have good relationships with their parents.

For me, though, I was blessed beyond measure when it came to the family in which God placed me. Like most children, I didn't recognize in my earlier years just how good I had it. As little kids, of course, we're pretty oblivious about these things.

Obviously, my folks weren't perfect (ahem...nor was I). Who is? They took their responsibilities as parents seriously, though, and did the very best they could - which was pretty good in my book.

As a young adult, I began to look at my mom and dad through the prism of time and with perspective gained through experience - and the enormity of the gift I'd been given started to become quite apparent.

It's become more and more pronounced as the years have passed - and as I've reflected on their amazing life stories (not just the time that I knew them). My appreciation for and admiration of them continues to grow to this day.

It struck me when rereading this passage from the Book of Proverbs last week how true it has been for me: Keep your father's commands and do not forsake your mother's teaching. Bind them in your heart forever; fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you. ~Proverbs 6:20-22

Both my folks have gone home to be with God, and I miss them deeply. However, they are bound in my heart forever.

The blessing of my parents is a gift that has kept on giving. I carry them with me; I continue to benefit from their guidance. Though their days here on earth have passed, they walk with me still. How amazing to know I'll carry that gift all the days of my life!