My Farmer and I have been amazed at the change in Farmer Boy since explaining to him that he is dyslexic/dysgraphic and what that has meant for him. It is the only thing that is different in the last two months and he is like a new person when it comes to reading. He is spontaneously reading things all the time now, which NEVER happened before. I can’t tell you what it does to my heart to see him during these moments. It reminds me of the first week we homeschooled, and I was literally nauseated all day hoping I hadn’t made a horrible mistake until Shooter told me as he threw his arms into the air, “I LOVE homeschooling! NO MORE SAD DAYS!”
For his First Communion, we gave Farmer Boy a prayer book and rosary set. It was, evidently, just what he had been hoping for. When he got sick on Wednesday, we missed the last night of our Parish School of Religion. This was the end-of-year party where Farmer Boy would have worn his fancy suit, received Eucharist with his classmates, had photos and a reception, followed by a barbeque at the park. But do you know what he was sad about? Missing the opportunity to have the gifts he received for First Communion blessed by our parish priest. Even though I reassured him that Father Wayne would be happy to bless them for him at another time, I got out my prayer book and read a blessing of religious articles and he seemed satisfied.
Then the most suprising and wonderful thing happened. Farmer Boy opened his prayer book and read this spontaneously:
Evening Prayer
Lord Jesus,
thank you for today.
It was your gift to me.
I tried to do the best I could,
please accept it as my gift back to you.
If I slipped away from your loving
arms, I ask your forgiveness.
Please, Lord Jesus, grant me a
peaceful night and restful sleep.
Bless my family and all those
who are close and good to me.
Give them your love and
protection. May we all ever
stay faitherul to you.
Amen.
Then he looked at me and said “WOW! I can’t believe I read all that! I just opened it right up and read it!”
Amen indeed.
Awww. That brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing the experience and the prayer. It was a beautiful way to start the day!
Well, WOW.
I’m balling – I’ll be fine – I am so happy for him and you.
Wow is right. I just discovered your blog via twitter and I am so impressed with how you have nurtured and encouraged your children as they grow (and thrive!). Thank you for reminding us other mommies about some of the wonderful parts of parenting our children.