In Certain Circles...

This has been a very busy weekend! Kassidy attended two birthday parties of fellow kindergarten students in her class at CCA. The first was "Spa Day" where 13 little girls under the age of and newly aged six were treated to facials and nails with the help of several adults. The funny saying for the morning was, "Just relax and allow yourself to de-stress." I couldn't keep down my laughter at the absurdity of a five and six year old needing to release stress. Ha! And although the party was a hit, I honestly needed a Spa Day by the end of all the pampering. The second party included the five boys in Kassidy's class at Pump It Up which essentially is a brightly painted warehouse filled with large inflatables. These kids had a blast jumping and jumping! As we pulled away from the second party, which also offered pizza, cake, and soda like the first party, Kassidy said with a sigh, "I sure hope that the mailman doesn't bring anymore party invitations for a little while." I had to agree with that tired little girl!

While attending these social events with my sweet, five year old daughter, I visited with several Moms. Some of these ladies did not know me or my family. I enjoyed visiting with people and sometimes had the most funny conversations. I learn the most about people when I remain incognito, which means information is not revealed about my identity as the mother of five including two with special needs.

Some Moms love to "drop names" of the people running within their circles, like popular preachers or somewhat notable musicians. I smile when I hear these wonderful stories, but I have another scenario playing within my mind, deep within my heart. You see, I run in the most amazing circle; although few people know the names of the sensational people I am privileged to see. It is like being a member of a very exclusive private club where membership requires far more than any Mother or Father would voluntarily give to join. It's a club where most members remain for life although a precious few get to leave when their membership status changes with the cure of their beloved. The world would not recognize them, but the "famous" people in this circle include children and adults, some with noticeable outward characteristics and all with life-changing challenges: Luke who has Fragile X and autism; Libby with heterotaxy syndrome which includes complex heart defects, asplenia (no spleen), and intestinal malrotation; Connor who was born at 22 weeks gestation; and many more families who live daily with overwhelming obstacles. Membership requires doing things you never wanted to do, and pushes each participant way over the limits of her abilities. However, it rewards, too, as meeting and "rubbing elbows" with these mostly unknown celebrities always leads to inspiration, warmth, acceptance, and a deeper level of self. I have two living under my very own roof! Wow!

Then at the party shortly before anyone reveals my "true" position in life as the manager of five fabulous children including the two who are secretly famous, some Moms share how stressful and overwhelming current circumstances are making them feel very unhappy or unsure. In some cases, the state of the economy and current events might be unsettling. At the forefront of concerns is the stability of employment and providing for her family. Some confide that marriages are "rocky" at best. Or some have frustration over the unwelcomed, continuous misbehavior of a mostly healthy child. It seems all of the normal problems of life like stomach virus and over-scheduled calendars can hit hard all loving Moms, no matter how many children. I commiserate as my status does not protect me from any of these realities, either.

It never fails: Someone asks a question and my circumstances are revealed. It seems looking into my "Circle" temporarily helps mothers change focus from current worries to clear vision of the people they love, creating the need to hug and kiss. My circle of friends is magical. For those on the outside looking into it, feelings of thankfulness and emotions leading to tears can be the result. And although the names of the members remain mostly unknown, this club hosts the most inspiring and most gifted people: People who are the most vulnerable yet persevering. People with such huge obstacles yet overcoming. People who are most dependant yet so dependable. People who are the most challenging yet the most lovable. People with bleak futures yet shining brightly.

My Goodness! You can see why this circle is more than name dropping and a list of "who's who," for the people within it make such an impact. Anyway, it was such a busy weekend. I'm sure the week ahead will be as busy. "The Lord is the One who keeps you safe" (Psalm 91:9.) Have a good one no matter what happens. I hope to do the same. M&R7