Haven

The happiness I know in loving you is only the beginning

Of the joy I encounter each day as I watch you nurture our children.

I love the smile on your face when they say something unexpected,

The sound of your voice as you introduce each of them to me on the phone,

The kind way you teach them how to say “please” and “thank you” and “I love you,”

The look in your eyes when you point to Paige as she skips and runs,

The hushed tone in your voice when you ask me to watch Spencer and Alex giggle,

The joy you express while playing with them,

The small lap that somehow holds all three of them,

The patient waiting while they help you cook or clean,

The gentle embrace to sooth hurt feelings or skinned knees,

The anger at a stranger’s indignation over their rare episodes of public misbehavior,

The godly voice of correction and instruction,

The impartial way you mediate between them,

The example of godliness you set before them.

You make our home a haven.