Payoffs of Parenting

In the world of parenting you put everything you can into raising your children to be best person they can possibly be. You hope that all the lessons you taught them whether through words or by example really sunk in and have molded them into a kind, compassionate and loving human being.


Today I was able to get a glimpse into the kind of young man that Mitch and I have raised. Just a little back story on Connor's latest interest, LARPING (live action role playing). It's a live version of Dungeons and Dragons meets World of War Craft. Anyone interested in participating gather together to battle and they accomplish this by using assorted weapons, shields and costumes. There are very specific guidelines as to size, type of materials used, etc. The weapons can only be made out of pool floating noodles and have to be covered with cloth. Connor has completely fallen in love with every aspect of this new endeavor and in his free time he is either making new weapons or tweeking ones he already created. Today I noticed that he had created a new weapon but noticed it was the same size as one he already had and figured he had made it for a friend from High School that went with him the other day and was going to start joining in. When I asked Connor if that was who the weapon was for he said no, but that it was for another kid that LARP's and his family doesn't have money for him to buy materials to make one. Mind you each weapon is really inexpensive to make, $2 - $3 a piece, but for a family struggling financially that can be a lot. So knowing that, Connor made him one that he is going to give to him this week. The category this kid battles is a wizard so Connor made sure to make it wizard looking by using bright colors and even the sock he bought to cover the noodle is a sparkly with stars and the colors match the colored duct tape that Connor was using. Of course I started to tell him how awesome I thought he was but he immediately stopped me and told me not to say anymore. All three of my kids are that way. I don't know why, but they don't like to hear me gush over how awesome of a human being I think they are being at that moment. After Connor told me the story I was emptying the dishwasher and I actually started to cry, I was so overcome with a feeling of gratitude that Connor is full of compassion and empathy for another person. Connor has always had a tender heart & has been full of kindness, but to actually see him do such a kind act just completely overwhelmed me. I got a glimpse of how Heavenly Father must feel when we as his son's and daughters do acts of service for our fellow brothers and sisters. I am so grateful that Heavenly Father entrusted this sweet, kind boy to our family and all the blessings he brings to our family. I love that kid!!