Summer Sunshine

There is this girl with the sun in her eyes and joy in her heart. She grows fast and it's a privilege to call her daughter. I am constantly amazed at the grace she exhibits, and the true generosity that pours out of her. I'm so blessed God has allowed her story in my life. 

For she writes with her heart: sometimes loudly, and sometimes quietly. Most of her stories, paper and pen will never do justice, and she writes these stories each and every day.

I watched one unfold this week, as the cusp of ten unfolded and opened in front of us.

She gave away gifts on her birthday, wanting to give, more than receive. She quietly and shyly approached others to hand out seagull birthday balls. A seagull birthday ball you ask? A bread roll stuffed with a super ball that you share with kids on the sand. The kids get to feed the seagulls a roll and keep the bouncy ball to play with later in the day.

The smiles of delight were a warmth spreading from faces to whole bodies, and whole families. People who have forgotten what generosity looks like, and spontaneity too, received grace and an infusion of warmth. The coastal clouds looming around their heads and hearts were chased away with the warmth of her sunshine. 

I'm so excited for her, because ten has been a big deal to her. She has been waiting to hit "double digits" for "forever". She filled her heart full of encouragement and love this week and hit ten living out loud with love in many locations.

She cherishes life. She lives life. She discovers life. She thinks thoughtfully about others and makes time for them. She gives generously and without finding fault.

 

She's reaching for the stars, to pull His heavenly light to earth for others. She's reaching for the stars, to put a little light up above.