Yesterday was my nephew’s 18th birthday. We were unable to celebrate it together because of the distance and the fact that he had his day all planned out. I sent him a text message first thing in the morning. Then my mom, dad, and I called and sang Happy Birthday to him. He was out the door early to spend time with his girlfriend and family. I saw some pictures today. He, his girlfriend, her brother and father all went to the spa and got a pedicure and went to a movie. His girlfriend made a red velvet cake which is his favorite. Back at home, he had sushi with his mom and swisher sweets. He also opened a time capsule that he put together 11 years ago when he was in boy scouts. It included some newspaper articles, comics, a picture of him and a piece of string that showed how tall he was at the time. I did not remember him being in boy scouts, but do remember him at that age. He was a sensitive kid, cared deeply about others, and had a contagious smile. He has had his share of struggles through the years, but looking at the pictures of him turning 18, he is still sensitive, cares deeply about others, and has a beautiful contagious smile – there is just a little more hair around it now. I love him dearly.

I Found God today in realizing the growth and life of my nephew.