They REALLY know you

I had an experience today that reminded me of something important, and something that I want to share with you.  I was at my aunts wedding, everything was so beautiful, especially the bride :) and I was so happy to see everyone, but I was also focused on myself, my life, my stomach, and the morning sickness that didn't seem to leave after the morning. 

Well, I saw my little 3 year old nephew running around, and I yelled out to him to say hello.  He came over and he said "Um, I have been trying to say hi to you this whole night!"  I was of course surprised by this, and so I said "Really?  Oh I am so sorry buddy!"  "Ya, when you were eating, I like tried to say hi like 3 times."  I said I was so happy to see him, and he smiled, and played with his water, and then ran off.  Tonight, I was thinking to myself, of the wonderful children I know in my life, and how they really do know me.

Let me share another sweet experience.  My husband Justin had just found out with the very recent home teaching changes that the family that he was supposed to home teach was a family that was moving that same week.  Justin called them up and offered to make them a breakfast on the go for the morning that they would be leaving.  We woke up early that morning, and as Justin met with his partner, I was about to hand off the food and let them go.  They both said I should come, and so I did. 

When we got there, we handed them the food, and it was so fun to see their faces of relief and gratitude for the simple breakfast we brought.  I looked at the two little girls that I had seen in Primary for the past 8 months, and smiled.  The oldest one then slowly came up to me, and she gave me the biggest hug and said "I'm going to miss you!" 

I almost started crying!  I told her that I would miss her too, and I left that little house amazed that she knew who I was!  I didn't just get up in front of Primary and blab to a restless audience....these kids know me, and they love me.  What a blessing!!

I have had many other experiences like these that I will not write, but I wanted to invite some thought, especially if you haven't had the opportunity to be a mother.  Are we not all mothers in Zion?  These little ones are smart, and many are quick to observe...so what are they observing??  I am awestruck with the possibilities of good and bad examples that I have set for little cousins, nieces, nephews, children of friends, and even strangers. 

I also am very grateful to my Heavenly Father, for the sweet opportunity to see these children learn, and love.  It has been hard wanting kids, but not being blessed with them, and I remember days where I would be in Primary and have to leave to cry in the bathroom because I felt like I was imperfect, and not capable of having such a blessing.  But now I see the wisdom of my wonderful Heavenly Father, to give me a way to affect these children, and be blessed by their love in return.  I will miss my little primary children, and I hope to not miss another chance to love, and to be an example to one of God's little ones, because really....they know me.  Yes, they REALLY know you.