In Mormon culture, it's tradition to bless babies on the first Sunday in a month, or Fast Sunday. Fast Sunday is when the Sacrament Meeting is dedicated to the sharing of testimonies over the pulpit. This often facilitates a testimony from parents. We are breaking with tradition to bless Charlie today because my parents are in town. Because it's not Fast Sunday, it's not a day to give testimony in front of a congregation, but I want to do it anyway. Congratulations: you just joined my virtual congregation!
Yesterday, a niece of mine was baptized and confirmed a member of the LDS church. Our little family was in attendance, along with much of her 'big' family. I missed a lot of what we were there to support because Gabe has been a very energetic little boy lately (read: terror, wrecker, menace). A two-year-old talking loudly about fruit snacks does not contribute much to a quiet atmosphere, so we spent a lot of time in the halls of the church where Gabe could run and talk to his heart's content.
Afterward, when others commented on the beauty of Abby's baptism and confirmation, I couldn't help thinking about the difference in experiencing church functions as a parent (or grandparent) and the experience without small children. In my opinion, or experience, it builds a different kind of testimony--almost purely practical.
In college and early in my married life, I could ponder theology to a certain degree, and appreciate the richness of intricate explorations of religion and spirituality. Nowadays, prayer and faith are simple tools I rely on to make my days go better. Today, I look at my children and am overcome with awe and gratitude. I use whatever brain power I have pondering their futures and how I can be a better Mom. I appreciate the richness of my role as their mother.
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Amen.
