Today is my daughter’s first birthday. Since she couldn’t
write a wish list, I helped her out:
• Teeth. Yes, she’s 12 months old and no, she doesn’t have
any yet. People tell me the longer they take to come in, the healthier her
teeth will be. In that case, I shouldn’t have to spend a dime on orthodontia
for this girl.
• Stability. There’s nothing more comforting to a child (or
adult) than knowing the basics will hold true each day. I want her to that her
parents will always be there for her, that she will always be warm, full and
safe, that she will always be loved.
• Independence. I write this with hesitation because I’m not
sure I’m ready for it. But I know my
daughter and she is nothing if not independent. Most of the time, she prefers
to do things on her own — eat, drink, undress — all of which leads me to
believe (hope) she’ll be easy to potty-train.
• Self-confidence. I tell my daughter every day that she is
beautiful and special and beloved. I want her to know those things so
instinctively that she never has to seek unhealthy attention to affirm herself.
• Contentment. I want her to be happy with what she has,
whether it’s tangible (clothes, toys, books) or intangible (a relationship, career
or salary). I’ve struggled with this my whole life and it’s a battle I’d like
her not to have to fight. Like Paul, I want her to be content in every
circumstance.
• Faith. I want my daughter to grow up to know Jesus Christ
as her Lord and Savior. Faith is the bedrock of my life, the compass by which I
navigate daily life. I want her to be a woman after God’s heart. No matter what
negative things society says about people of faith, I want her to know that
living a life pleasing to God is a worthy pursuit.
Happy birthday, my sweet, funny, delightful girl!
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