You are not alone.

Last night, our family attended Isaac's Pre-K graduation.  You would think, having been through two prior Pre-K graduations, that I would have been better prepared emotionally by now.  But as I sat there, waiting with all the other parents for our children to file into the sanctuary of the church where they attend school, the tears started to fill my eyes.  It wasn't so much that I was sad about Isaac graduating from Pre-K, as much as I long for my baby to not grow up so fast, and not go off to Kindergarten.  So, I tried my best to think about other things.  And it kept my mind occupied for awhile, until I saw Isaac and all his classmates start to walk in.  I can't believe my baby is such a big boy!

As the class got up on the stage to sing their songs, one little girl from Isaac's class started crying.  Her mom went up to the stage to get her.  She was too scared to sing in front of so many people.

Isaac and his classmates sang several heartwarming songs.  Isaac had a lot of fun, and I felt so thankful that he was able to have such a positive preschool experience.  His two teachers are true blessings from God.  They will be dearly missed.

After the performance as we were leaving the sanctuary, Samuel asked me why the little girl from Isaac's class had to leave the stage.  I explained to Samuel that this sweet little girl gets very nervous around people... she doesn't like being in front of a lot of people... it makes her anxious and sad and scared.  I honestly didn't think Samuel was still listening to me by the time I stopped talking.  And then, from seemingly out of nowhere, Samuel said, "So, you mean she's just like me?  I'm not alone?  I'm not the only kid like that?  Wow, that's kinda cool!"

For every single time that I have tried to tell Samuel that he is not the only child who struggles socially, and for every single time I have tried to help Samuel realize that he is not alone, and for everything I've tried to do on my own to help him...  Bam!  Just like that...  God stepped in and said, "Patty, sit back and stop worrying so much.  You are not alone.  And neither are your children.  I've got it all under control."

"I have told you these things so that in me you may find peace.  In this world you will have troubles.  But take heart!  For you are not alone, and I have already overcome the world."  John 16:33