May you live to see your children’s children—peace be on Israel. Psalm 128:6
“Children are very nice observers, and they will often perceive your slightest defects; in general, those who govern children forgive nothing in them, but everything in themselves.”
François Fénelon (1651-1715) French archbishop and theologian in Day’s Collacon, compiled and arranged by Edward Parsons Day (New York: IPPO, 1884) 100.
Today I hope to see our new granddaughter after she and mommy are released from the hospital. It’s a joy to have lived to see her. What I am realizing is that she will also see me. As she grows up, she will be a keen observer. She will watch my every move. And what Fénelon has taught me today is to be generous with grace and forgiveness toward her and disciplined toward myself and not the other way around. Wow!
God help all of us set a good example so that our gracious generosity draws our children and grandchildren toward us, in your mercy, hear this prayer in Jesus name. Amen.