There truly are very few things in life that you begin to consider "awesome." Frankly, the word "awesome" is now so over-used (sort of like the word "love") that it has lost the wonder of the meaning that is associated with it. What's awesome? Your first glance at the Grand Canyon. The first glimpse of your wife as she begins the walk down the aisle. When the nurse or social worker (when adopting) places your child in your arms. But a grandchild? That's something very special.
All of the work that went into raising your child has now been "replicated" as that child goes out into the world, finds the love of their life and chooses to bring a new life into the world. Then you watch your child prepare for the "blessed event." If it's your daughter, as in our family, you watch that beautiful belly grow. You witness the incredible glow of her countenance. You watch the new thought process in the back of their eyes.
I heard of Caleb's birth from afar while at a business conference. Now as we headed to a family gathering, we anticipate seeing him in the flesh. My wife and I as grandparents. Our younger son, the proud uncle. All of us were to have our lives instantly changed.
We arrived at the hotel literally at the same moment. We couldn't wait to get the cars parked and unloaded and the baby in our arms! Yeah, it was great to see our daughter and son-in-law who was home on leave from his duty in Iraq. But Caleb...
It was awesome!
I'm one of those guys who loves to hold babies. I am. I'm not ashamed of that fact either! There's something that is "pure" or "clean" about holding a brand new baby. Yes, they inherently have the faults and stains that we are all born with, but...they're still a relatively clean slate. Babies trust. Babies are completely dependent upon their parents and others. Babies aren't cynical (they learn that from the surrounding culture).
Caleb was just what we all needed for a time like this. Often times - actually all the time - it is God's perfect timing that astonishes us. The new arrival was to bring joy into a time of sadness. Smiles into a time of grief. Laughter into a time of tears.
As we sat in the funeral home in Concord, New Hampshire, this little gift brought the hope of new life, as well a smile, to my mother in law who was about to bury her beloved husband of 54 years .
