LIFEBOATS AND SWEET WILD BLOSSOMS

"Thank God for little children,

Bright flowers by earth's wayside,

The dancing, joyous lifeboats

Upon life's stormy tide.

Thank God for little children

When our skies are cold and gray,

They come as sunshine to our hearts,

And charm our cares away.

I almost think the angels,

Who tend life's garden fair,

Drop down the sweet wild blossoms

That bloom around us here.

It seems a breath of heaven

Round many a cradle lies,

And every little baby

Brings a message from the skies.

Dear mothers, guard these jewels.

As sacred offerings meet,

A wealth of household treasures

To lay at Jesus' feet. "

Frances Ellen Watkins (1825-1911)

The Native American culture regard their children as sacred. It is easy to see why they are seen that way, as children are so special. In some of the hardest, and even crushing times in my life, one of our children-or another child- has climbed into my lap and assuaged the pain as no other human could have done.

We had several "sweet wild blossoms" dropped from somewhere this afternoon in Sunday School, and they helped to make Ray's, Esther's, and my day special. Some of the children just showed up, dropping their bikes in the yard and coming in for the story , a little singing, and craft. Some were there for the first time, and some of them had not been there for awhile. They are refreshing, though challenging.

We appreciate the men who come to worship with us, though one of the men sent a regret that he could not come because he was babysitting a nephew that 'gets into everything.' :)

It seems like a breath of fresh air to have Esther with us again. The children are happy to have her, and we do not feel so exhausted when we have finished with Sunday School, as she is a capable teacher to them.

We appreciate the beautiful weather we have been having, and it makes the day so relaxing when we make a trip to Lower Brule in the fresh mornings. I am so thankful for this ministry when we can put aside the stresses and pressures of the week and drive out to worship and mingle with these special people who take life as it comes and accept people as they are. Our perspective on life is balanced by the lifestyle and endurance of the Native Americans. I miss my classes, as they have finished for the summer. My students are mentally stimulating as I teach them and they teach me. I received my Instructor evaluation from the college, and the students are encouraging.

Thank you for praying for Lower Brule.