Big Bonks

While getting out of the car for swim lessons, my toddler slipped and fell, hitting her forehead on the parking lot.

She cried, I cried—it was heartbreaking. I couldn’t have caught her, and she couldn’t stop herself; it was just one of those moments. I held her, comforted her, and reassured us both that even when painful things happen, I’ll always be there to hold and console her.

She was a bit fragile during lessons but rebounded after some reassurance.

On the way home, I reflected on the morning and my own struggles. I had caught myself thinking, "These weaknesses have to go—no one wants to get close to that." But then I thought of my infant, helpless and dependent, and how I love soothing her. Her needs allow me to draw close through service. Then I thought of my toddler, who had just fallen. Did I begrudge her mistake? No—it was a chance to reassure her and connect.

And then it dawned on me—my Savior sees me the same way. He cherishes my weaknesses as opportunities to draw close, to serve, and to encourage me forward. Tears filled my eyes as gratitude filled my heart for the precious people I get to love and nurture. And I realized—that’s exactly how my Father in Heaven and my Savior feel about me, too. That gave me hope to continue forward in the work of providing a better childhood to these precious children than I received, and hopefully they can stand on my shoulders and offer an even better childhood to their children than I could give them!