Last year, my 74 year old dad fractured his thigh bone and as a result had to be confined to a wheelchair for at least 90 days. My 6 y.o. daughter Kaila empathized with me. She sensed my concern for my dad and she tried to comfort me by praying for his recovery every meal after the accident.
The accident happened during the 3rd quarter of 2007 and as we entered the "ber" months, Kaila began to draw Christmas icons: candy canes, gifts, trees...What was heartwarming was a drawing of her grandfather standing by the Christmas tree! I encouraged her to give it to Lolo (grandfather in our native language) and he posted it beside his bedside as an inspiration.
As Christmas drew near, my heart leaped at the news that dad was slowly putting weight on his injured leg. Soon he was taking small steps with the assistance of a caregiver. One day after New Year, my three year old, Ryan, challenged Lolo. "If you walk, Lolo, I will give you a prize!" And Kaila quietly but with much anticipation, observed her grandfather as he stood from his wheelchair and walked without assistance from the dining room to his bedside! What a victorious moment!
Lolo acknowledged the power behind Kaila's picture and her prayers (I know God listens to you) and asked Ryan for his prize. What did he get? Thrilled grandchildren, a very thankful daughter and six smashed bottle caps from Ryan's pocket.
