Today at this time I was in the hospital being induced into labor with my first child, Colbey Ryan Swenson, that was fourteen years ago. Just writing that sentence brings a tear to my eyes as it seems just like yesterday. So in between making a collage of chocolate chip pancakes, and rather than quickly jumping in the shower I thought it only appropriate to write a story about my son.
I call Colbey "my mini me" because not only did he inherit my good looks (LOL), my curly hair, but he unfortunately developed my stubbornness. Although, I'd prefer to say he FORTUNATELY developed my free spirit, kindness and individuality; but that would be giving myself way too much credit because Colbey is so much more than that and so much more than me that I often am jealous of his gifts that are obviously from God and God alone.
An example of one such time was when I was picking Colbey up from school; He started telling me a story where a kid had been really rude to him (I don't remember it exactly). The "Mama Bear" in me immediately took control and I said something to the sort of "you don't let people treat you that way you should have done this_____ or said this______" I don't remember what it was but I do remember that I told him if he would have done it he wouldn't have gotten in trouble which means it probably wasn't very nice or appropriate. Colbey very quietly and with a solemn face turned to me while parked at the stop sign and said "Mama, that isn't very nice! What would Jesus do?"
Well I will be honest and tell you that was one of the most humbling and proud moments of my life. I was almost speechless (which if you know me is a rare occasion). I did however reply with "Colbey you are right, don't listen to me, I was being overprotective and you were doing the right thing, I'm proud of you."
You see, Colbey will probably be mad and embarrassed I'm writing this today and sharing with you all. He is not the type that needs public acknowledgment for all the good he does each day as so many people y are. He really doesn't even require much appreciation. He just does the things he does because internally he is a genuinely good person, and has a strong rrelationship with God. He's getting to that age where he will be embarrassed I wrote about him, and especially included religion or God in the same article. The middle school age is so hard, even the most independent of people are subject to peer pressure, and the need to "fit in with the crowd."
So Colbey I am sorry, and to the rest of you kids who may by chance be reading this remember that life is short; I know right now it doesn't seehim like it, especially when you are sitting in class watching the clock waiting for it to turn to 2:50 so the school day can end. Remember, that within our lives we have many moments, but they can come and go very quickly and if you don't take advantage of them they are lost forever. So stick with the friends that make you better people, and if someone makes fun of you or says something mean for doing the right thing, they are the minority and there are so many other people who would jump at the chance to have a friend like you!
Colbey is one of the best sons, brothers, and friends you could ever ask for. He parents his younger brother and has always taken on the responsibilities of those way beyond his age, yet he doesn't complain and most of the time does it without being asked. He has not had the easiest life but I've yet to ever hear him complain once. He has spent time around MANY negative people yet he seems to overcome it and be a leader in kindness and compassion. If there is ever a chance to help others he does it without being asked, as if it is his second nature and just expected (a rare quality in kids these days).
So lets all follow Colbey's lead; take advantage of the "moments" in life where kindness can shine through and remember if we miss one, the other is only a "moment" away.
I love you Colbey, thank you for all you've done for me and most of all thank you for showing me how to be a better person. Your kindness, quietness, loudness (when appropriate),individuality, leadership, comedy, love for your friends and family, and most of all your love for God is something that makes me proud to call myself your Mama. I'm sorry for embarrassing you but its the best gift I could give.
Enjoy your pancakes,
Love, Mama
