Bragging on my oldest

One of the great things about blogging, in my opinion, is getting to brag on my family. I don't have to feel sheepish about it, because no one has to read it if they don't want to. So if you don't want to hear about my incredible Courtney, stop reading now!

Last Monday, I had the privilege to be a substitute teacher at the girls' school. I like doing that because it's the next best thing to being that "fly on the wall." I get to see what goes on during the school day and the interaction with classmates and such. We are greatly blessed to have our girls in a Christian school this year. Their day starts with devotionals. This was the Monday after Thanksgiving and the teacher leading the devotions that day asked each student what they were thankful for. Cassidy was thankful for her family and that they take care of her when she's sick. That was so precious. Loved that.

When Courtney's turn came, I was surprised at how much she had to say. My normally shy daughter spoke up and made me incredibly proud. In my words, she said she was thankful for her family, but was feeling especially thankful for her sister. She explained that over the weekend at a family gathering, she overheard a racial comment that upset her. It wasn't directed at Cassidy at all, but Courtney (and Matt & I) are very sensitive to comments about any race. Our Cassidy is not caucasian, if anyone hasn't noticed. Courtney explained to her classmates that the comment just made her aware of how much she loves her sister and that she wouldn't care if she was blue, she is her sister and she loves her.

This mom probably embarrassed Courtney because I had tears running down my cheeks. I thought I was going to burst with pride in my girl. You see, somehow, my girls are rather color blind when it comes to skin. They see people. They have biological relatives who are caucasian and a mix of caucasian and African American. They have friends who are African American, African American and caucasian, Hispanic and caucasian, Hispanic and African American, Philipino and American, Indian and caucasian. They live in an immediate family that is rather "conspicuous" as well. They just see people. People who are God's children created in His image. People for whom Jesus died. People who need famlies to love them and who love their families. I love that.

As for the racial diversity in our immediate family, we forget that Cassidy is Chinese and we are caucasian. She's just our daughter, Courtney's sister, whow we love. This Mom is proud and once again thankful. OBC youth choir singing at Youth Led Christmas service. Courtney is the third from the left.