JUST ANOTHER SUNDAY

The Priest stood on the pulpit, all 6’8” of him, fresh from Nigeria, and of course I couldn’t understand a word he had to say. It was just another Sunday until this young couple arrived and sat in front of TLW (The Little Woman) and me. With them was a cute little 18-month old girl, who was on the cusp of life’s many discoveries.

You all know where I'm heading!

I was angry with myself for forgetting to leave on my sunglasses. It wouldn’t look good if I put my sunglasses on during the sermon, and caught a few winks. I have learned to perfect the art of sitting up while I nap, and this sermon had nap written all over it.

The little girl in front of me stood on the pew and faced back toward TLW and me. Being a crotchety old man, you know I don’t like kids in church when I’m trying to either connect with Jesus or nap. But I have to admit: I got a big kick out of this one. She had such a round face and great smile. She looked at me without showing any emotion, just blankly staring at me. I decided to engage this child with my child-like behavior.

I stuck my tongue out and moved it along my lips left to right a few times. Suddenly the sun came out, all the lights went on and the biggest smile flashed on her beautiful face! She sticks her tongue out, and does the same actions, smiling as I do it back. The mother is in a bit of a panic and confused, trying to figure out who or what is making her behave so. The little girl is staring at me and now she is laughing out loud!

TLW shoots me a look and grins too. The little girl is now saying “Hi” to everyone who will look her way. She has a little Minnie Mouse doll and telling TLW it is: “Mimmie”, and TLW smiles back at her.

Her father lifts her up from the pew as we all stand while the Priest is leaving the pulpit and launches “Mimmie” into the center aisle! I silently congratulate her, as poor dad has to jump out in the middle of the service to retrieve it. I’m really starting to like this kid.

I guess God meant for me to forget to leave on my sunglasses!