My Oldest Daughter

Let me tell you about my oldest daughter.

She is a student at a Midwestern Christian college in a cooperative program with the Big 12 University across the street. She is following a course of study that will equip her as a school teacher. She will probably teach English, either at the middle school or senior high level. When asked why, she might say "I just love grammar." (Who loves grammar?)

She and I are best friends. I know this because I don't have as much fun with anyone as her, nor do I fight and argue with anyone more than her. When she was young, her mother and I used to be so encouraged by her strong will and unwillingness to give in to others. I still like this, except when I am on the other side of the discussion. With her, the answer "Because I said so" may produce results, but never resolution.

She drives an "older" Honda automobile. Her boyfriend worries about her car, and he probably should. Why does she drive a Honda? Because she always wanted a Honda. Her Honda has lasted from her senior year in High School until now. Her radio has been stolen (twice). Why do I tell you about her car? Here's the reason...it because of her mother's car.

Her mother's car is an Isuzu Trooper. For the past month, the Trooper has been out of commission. First, a flat tire and now it just isn't running well. I have a friend, named Joe, who works on our cars. The challenge is working into his schedule.

While their mothers car has been out of commission, both of the girls have been willing to loan her their car. We have imposed on our older daughter more than our younger. This is inconvenient to her, but she doesn't complain.(At least to me) Her spirit is one of cooperation and service. What a compliment that is to us as parents, because we are vain enough to think that we had something to do with teaching her to think that way. But, more than to us, it is a compliment to her.

Oh, by the way...she is also beautiful. Not just on the outside, but inside as well. I told a friend recently that all I can hope as a parent of two girls is that they would (1) Love God and trust Jesus as their savior and (2) marry Christian men, if they choose to marry. That's it...but do you know what? They also give me one more thing, they love their mother and me. That's pretty great, don't you agree?

And, one more thing. They laugh at my jokes. Especially the oldest daughter, she always laughs. Thanks sweetheart.