Birth

Today was a beautiful day; A bit warm for December, blue skies, a little breeze. This morning, I went back to the same hospital where K. died just two weeks ago, to be present for the birth of my first grandchild. Keller was born at 8:45 this morning, 8 lbs. 1 oz., 19 inches long, 26 days premature. He was having a little trouble breathing, so he was taken to the NICU, but on this quiet, clear night, he's sleeping peacefully. He's just about as perfect as he can be, and all of us who have hovered around waiting for this day are exceedingly thankful.

Words fail a fellow sometimes; this is one of those times. Some folks never seem to be at a loss for words, though, like the person who wrote this in the BCP, page 829:

Almighty God, heavenly Father, you have blessed us with the joy and care of children. Give us calm strength and patient wisdom as we bring them up, that we may teach them to love whatever is just and true and good, following the example of our Savior Jesus Christ.

Amen.