Gabriella- My child you are loved

Yesterday afternoon Gabriella and I went on a date. The number one way she feels loved, is if you spend time talking to her, playing, and mostly listening. Knowing this we really should take her out for one on ones more often. We started our date at Barnes and Noble. We split a Java Chip Frap, and she walked around with her very own cup of coffee. I don't think she could have felt more grown up or proud of herself. We then read about 20 stories Bella style, meaning she plopped on my lap with a book, I would only read three sentences before she was off running to find me another.


After that we went in search for the perfect gift for her friends birthday. I had a few ideas, and attempted to make some suggestions but made up my mind to let her choose ( within reason) the gift she thought her friend would like. It was cute how careful she was shopping. We went to three different stores before she found the one her friend would just love. I loved her passion and zeal describing just how much the gift was going to be loved! I was pleased with her choice but surprised how often I wanted to push my own opinion on her. This was a little reminder for me to back off a little bit and let her make decisions for herself.


On our way to the play park Bella stopped to chat it up a bit with the mall's security guard. She talked forever without letting the poor man get a word in! I love how friendly Bella is. This trait of hers is one I really want to encourage her to grow in.


At the park I spent some time observing my spunky little girl. She was so concentrated on climbing up the same obstacle over and over and over again. I thought about how wonderful she is, and spent some time praying for her. She is so tender, sweet , and innocent. It is my hope that she remains this way forever.


It was during our Happy Meals that I felt such a huge burden for her. I witnessed a stark contrast between her and a few 13 year old girls close by. Sitting with me was this little girl, pure, excited about life. She was talking non stop about Princesses and castles. Joy was on her face and you can tell she felt loved. Deeply loved.


I was saddened with the realization that those teenagers near me, dressed very scandalously, with no smiles on their sweet faces probably weren't loved. And then I felt anger. Where are their parents. WHY are they allowed to dress in mini skirts that masked how beautiful they were? Why weren't they better cared for? Where were their mothers? Why did these young girls feel the need to expose themselves? The answer is obvious.


But it still makes me sad. And angry. Little girls need to be treasured. Cherished. They need to know how special they are. It's our job to show them that they are loved- far beyond what the world can offer them. It is horrifying to see the results of poor and careless parenting. At three my daughter already knows that she is beautiful, and special. As her mother I will defend her, and fight anything that tells her otherwise. God loves her more than I can even fathom, and she will grow knowing that, and hopefully sharing the same truth with her friends.


As we walked back home, I took Gabriella's little hand in mine and told her just how much I love her. She wasn't listening of course, she was too excited to see her Daddy. But I continued to tell her anyways. Today when she woke up I took her in my arms and told her again. And tonight before she falls asleep she will hear how thankful we are to know her, and to love her. And I won't stop. Ever. I won't get too busy to spend time with her. To talk to her. To let her know she is important. Ever. Because this little girl of mine needs that. And I don't take my responsibility over her lightly. I can't. And I won't.