As I sat patiently waiting for her turn… I listened to fifth-grade students honor a special mom, dad, or the occasional grandparent in their lives.

My mind began to ponder what my hazel-eyed beauty had prepared to share.

Maybe she would recount our music lessons or special spa days. Perhaps she would share about our weekly texts or some adventure we had taken.

Finally, her name was called and she walked nervously to the podium.

My heart swelled with pride as she stood before her peers.

Rather than sharing the way I’ve heard others describe me, or how I view myself, for that matter…

This incredible young lady gave an eloquent tribute about my presence in her life -

and how it made her feel about herself.

It was utterly breathtaking!

So much so, that for the remainder of the day, I could focus on little else than how her presence had impacted my life.

As I’ve shared in previous posts, our “favorites,” are everything to us.

But when God chose to bring this one into our midst, it was love at first sight.

Perhaps in those early days, I pictured my own babies, while catching a glimpse of her chubby cheeks and bright eyes.

Or, it may have been the way she adored her uncle Ry Ry.

But as I dig deeper, I recognize this child, who entered our orbit thirteen months after being placed on this earth - was the one God planned to pull me out of the pit.

The immense pit of self-pity and bitterness under which, I found myself buried.

God used her presence to ignite a spark of laughter back into our lives.

A glimpse of grace and a reason to inch further along in our healing journey.

They often say when you are navigating grief, that while the pain never fully dissipates… a day will come, when you awaken and begin to see color.

I can confidently say that her presence ignited a burst of color into our dimly lit existence.

A brightness that has simply continued to grow with each passing year

At the age of ten, she may not fully comprehend how deeply her presence has impacted me…

But one day, if there is a doubt in her mind that God hand-picked her for this family - I will point her to that moment.

The moment when a weary warrior, fell on her knees, and prayed for a miracle.

Thank you, Lord, for answering that prayer by sending our Livi girl, to us!

Let’s take a cue from this group of young people, this Christmas. Whether they are 10 or 110, take a moment to celebrate someone in your life, that has impacted you.