One Memory at a Time

Twenty-two years ago I held you in my arms for the first time. What a wonderful day that was. And to be honest at that point, 22 years seemed like forever.

When I held you in my arms twenty-two years ago, I was still a newlywed having only been married for 5 years. 22 years seemed like forever.

Now in two short days, I will be watching you pledge your love and devotion to Aaron. Where have the twenty-two years that seemed like forever gone?

They went one day at a time, one memory at a time.

How can I feel such joy and sorrow at the same time?  I am so excited for you and for Aaron and all that God has planned for you.

I am sad that the years that I have had you under my roof are now memories.

I want you to know that I don’t think either of us would be happy if you still lived here at 40. That has never been what I have wanted.

I am sad that the twenty-two years that seemed like forever have now slipped through our fingers never to be held again.

The beauty of this is that I am filled with such mixed emotions. Our relationship is sweet and so very precious to me. The sadness that I feel represents the beauty that exists between us.

The memories are sweet.

I remember your first smile, when you laughed, when you first started crawling and walking. I remember when you said, “I love you, Mommy.”

I remember when you asked Jesus into your heart.

Every time we went to the playground, you introduced me to your new friend. There was always a new friend to be had wherever we went. When we went to the grocery store, you wouldn’t stop saying “hi” until the other person acknowledged you and said “hi” back.

You participated in gymnastics, swimming, soccer, and finally found your passion for skating. Now that passion has turned into a passion for teaching others to love skating like you do.

Ever since you were little you have had a heart for others and a heart for serving others.

I watch you disciple others, encourage others, write notes to others, seek to bring out the best in others and my heart swells with pride as I realize how blessed I am that God gave you to be my daughter.

You will always be my daughter, but you have become so much more. You have become my friend.

On your wedding day, I will celebrate with you all of God’s rich blessings as you marry Aaron. It will be a wonderful day as you begin the next chapter of your life. You will be a beautiful bride.

May God bless you both in this next chapter of your lives. Keep treasuring each moment. Hold on to the joys that come each day and learn from struggles. Keep God first each and every day.

I love you Danielle and could not be more proud of the godly young lady you have become. I am excited for you and Aaron and the next chapter that is to come.