A Celebration of Daniel
Twenty one years ago today I became an Aunt. Not just “any” Aunt—Daniel’s Aunt. As his birth was imminent, he stubbornly refused to pass through the canal until the Doctor threatened to cut him out. I don’t know how, but Daniel knew it was time to give up all resistance or perhaps it was simply an answer to prayer.
I was sitting in the hospital waiting room, with my Mom (Anna Jones) and friend Kim (Botsford) Dupont, passing the time praying and cutting out paper Easter bunnies for a Sunday school class, (that’s a story best forgotten) when my brother (in-law), Neville, came out to announce Daniel’s arrival and my sister, Berta Isabel, was safe and sound. The moment I held Daniel I was overcome with awe. Despite the fact I’d held, fed, changed, jiggled, and kissed a plethora of babies, nothing could have prepared me for the gift of Daniel.
It’s been a joy to watch Daniel attack life with a zeal that refuses to accept mediocrity. With Daniel, it’s all or nothing. Unfortunately, on more than one occasion, he’s had to choke down large portions of “all” and weep over the emptiness of “nothing.” But through it all he’s displayed an enviable strength. While he hasn’t always been faithful to his baptism, there is no doubt in my mind he has been covered and protected by the gracious and merciful Living God.
Daniel possesses a unique sense of humor, a big ol’ brain, an endless well of creativity, a handsome face, a heart the size of Texas, bad taste in music, a love for my cooking, a top made out of rubber and a bottom made out of springs. It’s so hard for me to believe he’s old enough to get married. It seems like I just put a pacifier in his mouth and jiggled him to sleep. Nevertheless, he’s found the love of his life, Mary, and he’s tying the knot in October. Lord willing, he will be the first of the Magnificent Nine to make a Grandaunt out of me.
The Lord bless you on this your birthday Daniel. May you remain faithful to your baptism and trust in God to help you remain faithful. May this year of your life be filled with unexpected successes and overwhelming joy. Happy Birthday sweet Daniel. I love you with a love I didn’t know I possessed until you were born and I am thankful for the gift of your life. Your Aunt Lucy
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