today is a special day....it's Gavin's 16th birthday!!! When I think about Gavin, I think about the calm, witty, thoughtful, Mets loving teen I get to call my son. I am so grateful for Gavin in my life as he has taught me many things, such as going slower in life and being patient are blessings, and being present is a gift in itself.

You see, 6 years ago I wasn't sure I was going to be present to share in Gavin's 10th birthday celebration. I was scheduled for treatment that day and a gracious person, Chris, offered to switch his treatment time with me so I could get home to surprise Gavin. And surprised he was! His reaction was so sweet, and being there to celebrate him was so special.

Above is an old picture that holds that memory for me that I will always treasure.

In this world where there are so many things we can give one another, sometimes we think coming empty handed to one another isn't enough. Yet there is a real gift given, and received, when we can arrive in front of someone empty handed, with nothing but ourselves, and when we are welcomed as we are.

I share this today to celebrate Gavin's special day, and to invite you to join me to...

pause. breathe. pray.™

Giving physical gifts is thoughtful and fun, trust me, Gavin opened some this morning. Yet may we remember that being present for, and with, one another is a real gift we can give one another, whether it is on each other's birthday, or any ordinary day of the week. There is something real beautiful when we can arrive, and accept one another, with empty hands, and open hearts, like Gavin showed me on his 10th birthday.

With love and hope,

Shawn

P.S. If you'd say a prayer over Gavin, and his new year, which will include getting his license, I'd sincerely appreciate it!

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above... -Jame 1:17