We welcomed you into a world that you have already become a part of – but now we’ve finally met. And though I have only held you once, you already occupy a place of deep connection, belonging, and love in my heart.
Today, March 9, 2011, the world can be a scary place. As a newborn American citizen, I’m sorry to tell you that you already owe more money than you can repay in your lifetime – most of it to people who don’t live here. The Communist government in China wants to take over the reincarnation process (I don’t even know where to start with that). And a bully in the Middle East is clinging to power, whatever the cost.
But while the future is uncertain, it is no more so than the world our Lord Jesus entered two thousand years ago. And His life, death, and resurrection casts a much greater beacon of hope than the shadows of a fearful world could ever compete with.
You have been born into a loving family, who has established their home first and foremost on a steadfast love for God. You have the unique distinction of having a big sister – and if anyone was ever born for the role, she is. A genius at all things verbal, she’ll always be good for a story, detailed instructions, or a thorough explanation of just about anything you want to know.
Your father is a man of strength and honor. He will show you how to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. He will also show you how to treat a woman. Learn from him, and it will serve you well.
Your mother is her own definition of strength – strength of character and faith – who has a beautiful way of framing whatever view you have at the moment. She will show you how to see the bright and beautiful side in just about anything.
Your name speaks of a special type of leader and a special type of man – one who is a watcher, always aware. One who loves with great discernment and sensitivity, who sacrificially gives to – and courageously fights for – those he loves. One who leads with vision, yet waits with patience for the weak and broken. You will spend a lifetime understanding and growing into the destiny created by that name. But oh my, what a worthwhile pursuit!
Your Grammy and I have waited for you, prayed for you, and have anticipated this day for months. But nothing compares to the quiet delight of actually holding you and seeing you for the first time. Our love for you will only grow with time, though I can’t imagine delighting in you more. But nothing about your performance – either success or failures – will ever make us stop loving you.
Over time, we have much to talk about. About a rich family heritage and some ripe opportunities for mischief. About beloved family now in heaven and family secrets you’ll probably never hear about from anybody else. About fun and funny things and near and dear things.
People will say we spoiled you. Ha! What do they know?
Welcome little watcher. Now let’s have some fun.
Congratulations! What a sweetheart to wait until the semester was over. 😀
Shepherd shares a birthday with my son. From my facebook update this morning: Twelve years ago, the snow fell softly as X entered the world as a long, lanky baby, under a rare blue moon.
May they both live long in Service to their God.
Welcome Shepherd!! What a blessed little boy he is!
Thank you, Andy, for sharing the first day of the rest of Shepherd’s life with me through your words on this page. I rejoice with you, Robin and your family.
With much love for all of you!
Paige
Hey, where’s the “like” button? I am liking this tremendously.
Beautifully written! and congratulations!
Made me cry.
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