An Amazing Big Brother

Christian has been such a trooper through our NICU journey.  It has definitely not been easy on him.  The weariness his parents feel is also felt by Christian and is evident on his face...weariness coupled with confusion.  He does not understand why his parents are away so much, why his mom has tears in her eyes, why his schedule is off, and why Andrew is not coming home.  There is no way for his four-year-old brain to wrap itself around the situation.  Sometimes, though, that can be a good thing.

I will never forget when Christian saw his brother's IV.  We called the IV fluid baby Gatorade and Christian clearly saw it was going into Andrew's hand.  As any four-year-old would, he asked "Why?"  Scrambling to come up with a suitable answer, I said the IV was like a straw.  Christian quizzically looked at it and said, "He is drinking through his hand?"  And then not two seconds later, he was making funny faces into a mirror the nurse had previously provided.  Apparently, the answer was acceptable. 

My wonderful son has tried to be a "happy helper."  Yes, tantrums and frustrations have erupted at times but his sweet disposition is also ever present.  The other day, I was fussing at him to focus on the task at hand and he was moving like molasses.  My patience was being tried. Moments later my heart changed instantly.  Christian proudly ran up to me and said, "Momma, I felt the whites; they are dry!  Where can I find a basket so I can change the laundry?"  I wanted to weep, knowing my small son was trying to help his mommy. 

Thank you, Lord, for a son with such a sensitive heart who loves serve others; may this never be squelched. 

 Easter Egg Hunt
2013