The Unexpected Gift

Scott and I feel extremely blessed to be surrounded with such amazing people here in NWA. We have a great network of friends, who love us and support us in so many ways. Furthermore, we are blessed with a community of friends who are like minded in raising our children. First, our desire is to raise them in a manner that will cultivate a love for God. Second, we want them to not only love others as much as themselves, but also view others in that manner. I have several other "Mommies" in my life that I feel privileged to glean wisdom from when needed (which is quite often). It is encouraging to know that they are praying for my children, as well as playing "another mother" role in their life. I wanted to take some time to share the heart behind one of these families, both parents and children. My oldest daughter, Kenzie, was invited to a birthday party for her friend Mary Katherine. (Everyone calls her MK) MK was turning 13 and wanted to have a pizza party with games, fun, and friends. This was not a typical birthday party, however. Most 13 year old girls would be concerned with ipods, cell phones, gift cards, clothes, and money. Not MK! In fact, she was thinking of someone else; she was thinking of Kenzie's little brother in Africa. You see, at the bottom of the fun, festive invitation it read: "NO GIFTS PLEASE. IN LIEU OF A GIFT, MARY KATHERINE WOULD LIKE TO BLESS MACKENZIE PAGE'S FAMILY, TO HELP BRING HER BABY BROTHER HOME FROM ETHIOPIA." Tears, right! How amazing is that! She not only sacrificed her desires for the good of someone else, but allowed her friends to be involved. What a beautiful gift from a beautiful girl! Our hearts are forever changed by such unselfish love. We can't wait to share this story with our son. He is already loved by so many!