Give and Take

Convention usually says we may model ourselves after our parents but the reverse is also true. Much I have learned in my adult life I have learned from my mature children. I have learned much from the arrows as they from the bow. I hope to continue with this growth, for the blessing of children is, in time, give and take. Psalm 127 which we sang today and which has occasioned this post, sings the psalmist,
Children are a heritage from the Holy One
the fruit of the womb,a gift from God.
Children born in one's youth
are like arrows in a warrior's hands

Happy are those
who fill their quivers with them;
they shall not be shamed
when they talk to enemies in the gate

As we approach Remembrance Day there is a solemn sadness I feel for the parents of the fallen and the gift that they have lost in this earthly life.