My first Compassion International advocate presentation: An unexpected lesson
And the lesson was learned by me.
Yesterday, as I packed the things I would need for the Vacation Bible School I was going to today, my eldest, Susan, asked to tag along.
At first, I didn’t think it a good idea.
I didn’t want to be a mom on duty, I just wanted to be an Advocate talking about children living in extreme poverty. I wanted the drive down to be a mental break from the house and all it’s craziness. And I guess part of me thought she would get in the way. She’s ten. It’s way better than a toddler, but still she has her moments of silliness.
But as she tried on a sarong I planned to bring as a prop, I couldn’t help but say yes.
Susan did great modeling the sarong, quick to jump up next to me at her cue, with no fear of standing in front a group of strange kids. She wore the Indonesian sun hat with pride. The best part of all: Susan watched her mommy talk passionately about children that need help, children living in a world she has only seen in a book or on DVD. 
I wrote recently how I want to find opportunities for my children to learn about justice and helping others, so to almost miss this kid-friendly chance leaves me disappointed with myself. I need to stop thinking of Susan as a little girl, but as a young lady who can participate in ministry along side me.
7.18.08 at 12:00 am
Sally comments:
Wow, your child WANTS to go with you to VBS. You must be a good model for her, so be grateful for this blessing and opportunity.
Sallys last blog post..Booking Through Thursday - Vacation Spots
7.18.08 at 1:07 am
Kelsey comments:
You are an awesome role model!
Kelseys last blog post..::The Movie of Her Life::
7.18.08 at 7:28 am
Monica Brand comments:
Sally, it’s a rare treat for she and I to get alone time. We are so much alike, we both need what I call “mental download time”. Time for quiet thinking. We have little of that around here because of the younger brothers and little sister. I was pleasantly surprised that we chatted the whole time there and back. Didn’t expect that either.
7.18.08 at 3:38 pm
Compassion dave comments:
Man! I now feel like I missed out on something big (*I didn’t come because I would have had to bring my daughter Gracie–age 8). Please don’t tell me you had an extra sarong.
Sounds like all were blessed!
cd
Compassion daves last blog post..Hose Water Theology
7.18.08 at 3:50 pm
Monica Brand comments:
You should have brought her, Dave. I would have included her in the “modeling”. One hat for my girl and one for yours. Next time!