Happy Birthday, Aaron!

 

Today is our youngest son’s birthday. Aaron is 41 years old, which is certainly difficult to believe as it seems just yesterday that we were at Mother Francis Hospital in Tyler, Texas, awaiting his birth.

 

The picture I’ve attached needs a bit of explanation. Aaron’s Fall break from teaching at Georgetown University, in Washington, D.C., where he is an Associate Professor and Director of the French Study Abroad Program, began over the weekend and he flew home to be with us for a few days. One of the serendipities of the trip was a trip to the local farmer’s market where fall pumpkins were on full display. Pictured are Aaron and Mary (the image next to Mary is not me… it is a comical scarecrow). It was a GREAT visit.

 

We did many things throughout the long weekend, but the most satisfying activity was simply visiting with him. I always enjoy having a conversation with him, as well as Kyle and David, our other sons. I am always impressed with the depth of conversation and the insight gained through these conversations. We cover many topics, some supercilious and others of a more serious nature. What strikes me most is the depth of wisdom that is apparent. It seems to be more of “iron sharpening iron” (cf. Proverbs 27:17) than a teaching opportunity.

 

That ought to be the goal with all of those who have adult children. Our direct responsibility of parenting has shifted significantly as we have mutual opportunities to impart wisdom to one another through our relationship. This is certainly what Solomon meant in our reading today. I am grateful that it has turned out to be fulfilled for me.

 

Today is his birthday! So… Happy Birthday, Aaron… I pray you days will be multiplied, and years will be added to your life for a long time to come!