Looking Closely

(Some of our fall/back to school decor)

It's funny how the things around us become interesting when we take the time to look at them closely. In a recent Conference, we were reminded of the Savior’s admonition to “behold your little ones” ... “Notice that He didn’t say ‘glance at them’ or ‘casually observe them’ or ‘occasionally take a look in their general direction.’ He said to behold them. To me that means that we should embrace them with our eyes and with our hearts; we should see and appreciate them for who they really are: spirit children of our Heavenly Father, with divine attributes” (“Behold Your Little Ones,” Tambuli, Oct. 1994).

When did you last really look at your child?  Nothing else on your mind except seeing them, their world, their accomplishments, what they are thinking and feeling.  For me, too often busyness prevails, distractions are present, and I find myself glancing instead of be beholding.  But tonight I was drawn into Brett's world.  The sense of achievement and pride he felt as he fully concentrated on clapping his hands.  His excitement for life and his passion to tell you about it.  His big heart and sweet need for touch and cuddling.  What a blessing these children are and how much we can learn from them if open our eyes to see.