While They Were Sleeping

Have you watched your children lately in their sleep? After last week's incident with my youngest daughter, I came to appreciate the habit of gazing at my children while they are sleeping. I became even more thankful at the most little things that I have taken for granted for a long time.

Watching their tummies move up and down in perfect rhythm with their breathing gives me assurance of dear life. I hold very dear to the fact that a few days ago, my daughter's life was in danger.

Fixing my eyes on their faces, the look of serenity overwhelms me. In their deep and quiet sleep, I feel so much peace. My stare would linger for a time until I am filled with delight. Hearing every sound they make is like sweet music to my ears.

I would stroke their hair, touch their faces, as if I can't get enough of them. I would whisper sweet-nothings as if they can hear me. I would embrace them and plant butterfly kisses. I would even wonder what's in their dreams when I see smiles in their faces from time to time.

It's only on their sleep that I can do everything without them complaining about the hugs, about the kisses. They are growing up so fast. 'Though I try to capture every moments I have with them, it seemed like they are slipping through my fingers. That is why I treasure serene moments such as these.

They say that "you can only give what you have". I grew up not having love, not being loved. In fact I do not have fond memories of my childhood. Yet here in my heart is so much love for my children. I am blessed that I met the Lord before I had my kids. Because of God's great love for me, my heart cannot contain that it overflows. That is the love I am giving my children.

God uses circumstances in our lives to lovingly teach us to value whatever we have. Life is God's gift to us, so as our children. God has made our days a mere handbreadth, the span of our years is as nothing before Him. Each man's life is but a breath. (Psalm 39:5)

God speaks to everyone's heart anytime, anywhere, if we just listen intently. He spoke in mine while my children were sleeping.