She bounded into the kitchen, white socks covering her calves.
“I soccer girl,” she exclaimed, a huge smile beaming across her face.
Her older brother, the one closest in age to her, started playing soccer a few weeks ago (on a team, not just in the backyard). This girl of mine, the one who notices the smallest of details certainly has not missed absorbing all the soccer-related attire and activity of her brother. While she loves all things sparkly and pink, she was quite delighted to put on white sport socks up to her knees in combination with her pink-kitty-ear headband, referring to herself as “Pink Kitty Soccer Girl.” I mean, what else would you call yourself?
These two kiddos of mine with their little legs donning white socks hold a special relationship. Both were born with a cleft palate, creating unique challenges as newborns. His struggle with eating and breathing sucker-punched me daily as I spent my 9-5 shift in the NICU for six weeks. Her challenges we know little about. But this special need that my two youngest share is a special gift I continue to marvel.
One thing I prayed on repeat during Grant’s NICU stay.
God, don’t let this pain be in vain. Use it for our good, and your glory – somehow.
I admit some days it felt like my prayer was encapsulated in the tiny shell of a mustard seed, nothing more.
But God was working in the waiting.
He was working in my heart.
Working out healing in my boy.
Working out details that would lead us to pursue adopting a daughter with a cleft palate five years later.
I’m grateful I now see glimpses of how his working has resulted in my good and his glory. I’m humbled God continues to use my children’s stories to teach me more about the my own heart and how all things point back to showcasing his love, grace and power.
Sometimes God uses socks to remind me of the good story he is writing.
Abby says
It always impresses me how God used all aspects of our lives to weave together for years after. He is faithful ! Great post!
admin says
Yes, Abby! It’s such an intricate, beautiful weaving of his faithfulness.