In the Fullness of time: Faith's Orchestra Concert

Starfish

Once upon a time there was a wise man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach before he began his work. One day he was walking along the shore. As he looked down the beach, he saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled to himself to think of someone who danced to the day. So he began to walk faster to catch up. As he got closer, he saw that it was a young man and the young man wasn't dancing, but instead he was reaching down to the shore, picking up something and very gently throwing it into the ocean. As he got closer he called out, "Good morning! What are you doing?" The young man paused, looked up and replied, "Throwing starfish into the ocean." "I guess I should have asked, why are you throwing starfish into the ocean?" "The sun is up and the tide is going out. And, if i don't throw them in they will die." "But, young man, don't you realize that there are miles of beach and starfish all along it? You can't possibly make a difference!" The young man listened politely. Then he bent down, picked up another starfish and threw it into the sea, past the breaking waves and said, "It made a difference for that one."

Last night Faith had her last concert of the school year. It was really nice. I am actually surprised how well these string beginners do at playing their instruments. I remember when I was a kid listening to the beginner orchestra students at my school. They sucked.
I watched Faith on stage thinking how beautiful she is. She is such a special girl. And, she is growing up too fast, becoming a beautiful young woman. I am so proud of her. She does so well in school. She chooses awesome friends. She is so smart. I have always said, "God gave her to me so I could keep my sanity. She is my gift."