avery's kindness

last night avery, ike, and june were playing outside with all the neighbor kids. they were raking up all the leaves off the sidewalk from the corner all the way to our house in hopes of building a giant pile to jump into. as it had just rained, the leaves were wet and it was cold outside. i thought they were crazy. they thought it was loads of fun. 

as i was making dinner, avery came in asking if she could make hot chocolate for all the kiddos because, no surprise, they were cold. i was frustrated with the idea and said no because i was making dinner and didn't want her in my space. i complained that it'd be too difficult to make hot chocolate for so many kids -- there were eight at least. but she did it anyway cause that's how avery is: defiant to the end. it drives me crazy most of the time. but as i watched her prepare the chocolate using a large container that had an easy pour spout, i began to change my  mind about her idea. she was doing a more efficient job than i thought she would. and she was being kind and thoughtful of others, which i didn't want to dissuade. this is what avery is really good at -- seeing another's need and being defiant in meeting that need. once she knows someone needs lifting, she is committed to doing it. 

it was awesome to watch last night and left a huge impression on me. even this morning, i find my spirit lifted remembering her service to others and her unwillingness to allow my humbug attitude to get in her way.

i saw God today.