First Day of School – a New Season

August represents a time for beginnings and endings. Hot summers – filled with softball, vacations, swimming, hanging out in the hammock, and eating loads of ice cream - is about to come to an end as we gear up for the new school year about to begin. Seasons change.

I’ll never forget my son’s first day of kindergarten. I have the notorious picture commemorating the big day. Tears streamed down my face as his little tanned arms were raised high – offering a freshly picked bouquet of flowers to his impending teacher. (It was actually a pre-peace offering – an act of kindness – considering the unique and creative challenges my strong-willed son would offer later in the year! Yes, even in kindergarten.)

This school year will come and go at rapid speed – just like the year before. But you probably already knew that. In fact, some of you have empty nests now, though never will your hearts be empty. That love stays forever (assuming you elected to let your child live past the teenage years).

Enjoy this temporary season of your life. It’s hectic, but good, and guaranteed to pass at an expeditious speed. Parenting can be a daunting task with little recognition of a "good job." Some days are slow and challenging, but the years are fast and rewarding. Each day, none-the-less, we make memories.

What are your memories going to be for this season? Sometimes we just have to stop the negative talk and start counting our blessings -- even in the middle of cooking, washing, cleaning, homework, errands, and career challenges. We can decide to focus on the negative aspects of this busy and demanding time, or we can decide to focus on the good - the blessings. Our attitude and responses to life's demands mold and teach by our example and leadership.

My kindergarten son -- isn’t in kindergarten any more. A few years have gone by, but it seems like yesterday. Last year I watched as those same arms were once again raised high with another offering of flowers -- and a ring as he knelt on one knee proposing marriage. The tears streamed down (flooded) my face and I hold the commemorative picture in my hand and in my heart of yet another big day.

Wow. Where did the time go? It didn’t take long to get through those school years. My job is done. No "do-over." This season of your life will pass by before you know it, as well. Yes, you may spend a lot of time down on your knees to get through it, but get ready - you, too may have a son down on his knee someday before you know it. Your job will be done, your hammocks will be empty, but your heart will be full.

"To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven." A time for summer to end – and a time for school to begin. Treasure this new season, make it your best. Let God be your guide and enjoy the sweet, but bumpy journey.