The Mystery Reader

Last week I had the opportunity to be the mystery reader for my son, Edwin's, kindergarten class. Every Thursday, a "surprise" parent reads a few favorite books. I had signed up for this date last fall, unbeknownst to Edwin. He would ask me every week, " Mama, when will you be the mystery reader?" I'd answer, "Next time, sweetheart." He'd sigh in frustration...



I was so so nervous that day. Believe it or not, but I'm a lector at our church. I proclaim God's word in front of hundreds of people. Why am I so nervous to read a children's book for 25 kindergarteners? To make matters worse, I was exhausted from working the night before. I was functioning on only 2 hours of sleep. I was a walking zombie.



When I walked into the classroom, the look on Edwin's face was priceless. He looked so delighted and proud to see me. He jumped right out of his seat and gave me a big bear hug. I read 2 books,"How Do Dinosaurs Eat Their Food," and "Where the Wild Things Are." The class loved them! The interaction between us all was humorous and heartwarming. Just hearing them laugh, seeing them smile, was precious. It reminded me of the innocence of childhood, a carefree time where life is problem-free.



The entire time, Edwin was just beaming! He looked so happy that I was able to spend some time with him and his classmates. Afterwards, he kissed me on the cheek and said goodbye. My heart just melted. I felt that all the stress and worries in my heart about trivial things had vanished.



That was such a precious and perfect moment for me. I felt this was a gift from God. I truly am blessed to be a mom, to have so much love in my heart for my children, and to receive that love in return from them. It is times like these, that God reminds me of how beautiful this world really is.