Birdsong

If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together.. there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart.. I’ll always be with you.
-- Winnie the Pooh

I am having a moment.  You see, I am just now finished helping my nearly 15-year-old daughter pack.  She is leaving me for almost a month and heading out to do mission work and to share her beautiful God-given singing voice with others.  In only a few short days she will be in the Dominican Republic…and I won’t.

©Scott Eller- taken at the AK Boneyard

Before she leaves, I wish her to know how beautiful she is.  I’m not talking about her singing and I don’t mean that her strawberry-kissed blonde waves and deep-sea blue eyes are what make her special (although these points could both be argued).  I mean that she retains the essence of a cherished angel; she is constantly offering joy to others, comfort, protection and gifts she probably doesn’t realize she even has. 

FAO Schwartz milkshake

As her mother, I wish I could take credit for this.  But I can’t.  She was born with a glimmer of wisdom in her eyes.  She looks at people and situations from an angle nobody else would ever notice and finds beauty in them.  Her heart aches for all in need and words of comfort come as naturally as breathing.

Mama Meija trip

I am having a moment.  But I know that I need to let her go.  She will come back to me changed- more wise, more experienced.  I will miss her, but I know that there are those who may need her more than I at this moment and I shouldn’t be selfish. This opportunity is giving her wings.

Meija today

My dear Meija, I love you.  I will miss you.  I am proud of you!  Go and experience great things, live with your heart and fly with your wings.  I will be here when you get back.  Know that Dad and I are with you in spirit even when you are away.  I know you know this, but we aren't the only ones with you- please allow the lyrics from "I Will Follow" fill you up on this journey, my sweetpea, angel, Meija May.

XO, Mama

*This video of Meija and Preston (who is also going on this trip) rehearsing a song for church service was taken with my phone~ please forgive the poor quality*

Voices of Youth