A young boy was playing in the sandbox with his friend behind the house at the foot of a beautiful snow capped mountain in Western Germany. It was a beautiful day; the skies were blue and the bright yellow sun was radiating as the two boys happily played war games with their toy soldiers in the cozy little sandbox just barely big enough for two. Suddenly without warning everything went red! The young boy was now bleeding profusely from his forehead! He ran towards the house screaming for his parents as his mother rushed out to see what was wrong. He had been struck by a rock intended for one of his soldiers in the sandbox.
The loving mother applied a dark green washcloth to the wounded area as she rushed him to the hospital. The boy’s mother is extremely concerned but composed while explaining what happened to the doctors. The young boy could barely see through all the blood as it continued to ooze down his face but he can see the help in their starched white coats. The mother is feeling the pain of the young boy as doctors hurriedly wheel him towards the emergency room. She is not allowed to go in with him and their hands are no longer clasped. They young boy cries out…”momma momma!” as she disappears from his view!” Inside the room; lights are so bright, everyone is talking so fast and then everything goes dark.
The young boy awakens hours later a little groggy and somewhat shaken with his mother by his side. He never had any desire to play in a sandbox again but he definitely will never forget that day as long as He lives!
I hope you have realized that the boy in the short story was me. When I think of a parent’s love, I remember this event because the memory still permeates 45 years later. It was incredibly traumatic but it also serves as a reminder of the uniqueness of a parent’s love. I have never been a parent but I have been a son for almost 50 years so this is my perspective on the unique qualities of a parent’s love.
A Parent’s Love is Beautiful
Something that makes a parent’s love beautiful is the joy they receive from their children. Now I did not always give joy to my parents…especially during my rebelling teenage years. However, I can still remember hearing them cheer me on from the stands as I was playing on the football field or the basketball court. The pride I would see on their faces(win or lose) allowed me to continue trying to do my best. Even as an adult, I will never forget the joy my mother expressed when I asked her to join me at an awards banquet in Chicago for work success. She cried tears of joy when we walked through the door of the magnificent hotel suite in downtown Chicago. I believe there is a part of every child that wants to make their parents proud. When a child feels that joy from a parent…it’s a beautiful experience!
A Parent’s Love is Unique
A parents love is unique because it is unlike any other situation in most cases. We did not get to chose each other. We can choose our friends, pick our own pets, and even chose the neighborhood we live in. However, when it comes to parents and their children..God put us together! I have been at two of my siblings births; my sister when she had her oldest daughter and my brother when his first son was born. The emotions I felt while in waiting room was beyond incredible! Feelings ranged from excited anticipation, to anxious, and appreciation for the miracle that God had created. The child’s dependence on the parents as they are cared and provided for is a necessity that must take place for the child to mature. The parent’s love grows deeper and deeper watching their child bloom while they continue to nurture them as the Lord leads.
A Parent’s Love in Unconditional
A Godly parent desires to love unconditionally just as Jesus did. There were so many times my father came to pick me up from my part-time jobs late at night even though he had been working all day himself. I remember my mother telling me when I was in elementary that I was capable of accomplishing anything in my future as long as I worked hard and always did my best. Even now as I am progressing in my stroke recovery, they are both ready and willing to help in any way they can.
I wanted to write about love before the month of February came to a close. As I write this post; I am constantly reminded of the most loving parent ever…our Lord and Savior…Jesus Christ. His love for us is beautiful, unique and definitely unconditional! We need to thank Him every day for choosing us to be one of His children. We are blessed by His loving kindness, His ongoing protection, and His purposeful discipline. God’s love for His children is everlasting and will never change. So take a moment today and thank Him for His love!
Food for Thought
I hope you are encouraged and reminded that your love as a parent has impacted or is impacting your children more than you can ever imagine. God has placed you in their lives to participate in molding them for HIS will to be accomplished. If you are not yet a parent be sure to let you parent’s know just how much you appreciate their love. Don’t take it for granted; they are a blessing from Almighty God.
Please share your thoughts on a parent’s love. Whether you’re a parent, a child our both…share your experience in the comments. I look forward to hearing a parent’s love story from you!
Horace Williams Jr is the oldest son of a pastor who went to be with Jesus in 2020. He is an award-winning author and amateur chef who loves Jesus Christ. His passion for Christ inspires readers to draw nearer to the God who loves them.
Awww…this is such a sweet post. My hubby and I were talking about how much kids love their mom. My husband was trying to ‘pop’ me with a dish towel the other day. My four oldest daughters swarmed around me in order to protect me. He said later that he was proud.
The relationship between parents and children is so special. It really shows us the Father’s love.
Thank you the kind words and sharing a “love story”. I asked my mom to read this last night and she said it took her back like it happened yesterday! I am beyond thankful for the Godly parents that my Savior blessed me with. May God continue to richly bless you and yours in everything you do:)
Such sweet words, Horace. And what kindness you offer toward your parents. I love it! They rank phenominal in your eyes, at least it seems. Praise the Lord. You’re walking the “honoring your parents” road well. Tying it in with Jesus is simply “right on”. Enjoyed the visit to. Keep writing, my friend. #tellHisstory.
Thank you Kristi for the kind words. Yes my parents are definitely a blessing from God! The month of February was a trying one as they took me to meet with two different surgeons regarding possible surgery. Thank God no surgery is required. I am healing just fine via the “Great Healer”. I’m thrilled to be back writing again. Thanks again for the visit and may God continue to bless you and yours. Have a fantastic week my friend!
Horace, you did a great job writing this post! You hit it right on the head about a parent’s love for their child. I’m so sorry you went through that traumatic experience but thank God you had such a loving mom to help you through that. It’s a very beautiful post and thank you for sharing your story with us!
Thanks Amanda for the comment and kinds words! It is always encouraging to hear from you. Yes I am truly blessed that my mother was there and handled everything so well. Parents cannot plan for accidents like that but she was my rock during a difficult experience. Just like Jesus is our rock always and forever! Thanks again for the visiting. May God bless you and yours and have a wonderful Wednesday!
Thank you, Horace. Sometimes I forget God doesn’t love me the way I love myself, which often isn’t very well. Then I look at my kids and think how patient I am with them, and how this love can’t even compare to what God has for me. This is a beautiful and timely reminder. Blessed by your words today!
Thank you Abby for your visit and your comment today. I feel blessed that you enjoyed the post. As we approach resurrection Sunday this month; what a humbling reminder of Christ’s indescribable love. I am so thankful for His love and the Godly parents He blessed me with. I don’t ever want to take them for granted and I’m looking forward to spending time with them this weekend! Thanks again for visiting and may God continue to richly bless you and your family!
Thank you for this beautiful reminder, Horace! I’ve often told my daughter that she will not be the perfect parent . . . no one is, but she can love her son like no one else can. I love your three points—unique, beautiful, and unconditional. Amen! Blessings to you!
Thanks Deb for your comment and kind words. Yes there is definitely something unique in the love of a parent. Sounds you gave you daughter some sage advice:) A mother’s love for her child is definitely a beautiful thing. I love my mother and I m so happy that she loved this post. Thanks again for the visit and have a blessed weekend!
Ahh, yes, now that I’m older I realize the uniqueness of a parent’s love, not only my two amazing earthly parents but my Father in heaven as well. Oh, how he loves us and yet we can’t comprehend the magnitude of His love either. It’s too grand for us to understand!
Amen Crystal! It’s funny how we seem to appreciate those closet to us as we get older. The time spent with my parents is now so precious to me. I thank God that they both are still here to advise, encourage and support myself and my siblings. I want to do all that I can to let them know just how much I appreciate their love. My Father in heaven has blessed with them and I am forever grateful for all He has done. I want to glorify Him in all I do so that He will know how much I love Him! Thanks for the visit and your insights. Have a fabulous weekend my friend. Blessings!
Great job Horace, although you and I both know we as parents were no where close to perfect, but we did love you little bugger. We are sooo proud of you and to see what God is doing and continues to do through you. Hugs/ lots of love!
Thanks mom..No one is perfect except Almighty God but you guys showed us His love in raising all of us. Love you too!
Beautiful post, Horace! I can imagine your sweet mama’s fright as she saw that blood oozing from your head! My mama heart cringed just reading your words!! And you are so right – the love of a parent is beautiful, unique, and unconditional! I love to remind overwhelmed Moms that they are perfectly equipped to parent the child they have, even when it seems so difficult, because God uniquely matched them as parent and child. He doesn’t just give us our children on a random draw, but specifically and uniquely planned for each other!
Thanks again and have a blessed weekend!!
Lori
Thanks for the visit and your comment Lori. Yes my mother said I took her back there when she read it but she really enjoyed the post. I agree with you that God matches up parents and their kids in a unique way. I am so thankful for both parents that God blessed me with. Thanks again for the visit. Blessings to you and yours in all your endeavors!
This is amazing, Horace! Reading about your incident brought back memories of my son being rushed to the ER for stitches in his mouth and cheek when he was 3 years old. I can imagine what your precious mother felt. I don’t take for granted the relationship I have with him and I pray he never does. I’m so thankful I have Jesus who loves me like no other. Thank you for sharing with Thankful Thursdays.
Wow! I’m glad you like the post Lori…thank you! Yes I was between 3 & 4 years old when this happened and I have been afraid to go to the doctor ever since. I also struggle with going to hospitals as well. Yes my mother was exactly who I needed at that moment. We have always had a special bond. I can tell in your writing how much you care for son. He is blessed to have you!. Thank you for allowing me to share on Thankful Thursdays. Your support and encouragement means a great deal. I so thankful for the love of my Heavenly father and the grace He shows me everyday. What a wonderful Savior we serve. Have a wonderful weekend my friend. I am praying to get a lot accomplished myself!. Blessings to you and yours!
This was just beautiful and something I needed to be reminded of today. As Charlie and I have been struggling but I love him more than life itself and I know things will get better with lots of Prayers and understanding. I am just sorry you had gotten hurt. And your parents sound amazing. I just have my dad now as my mom passed away but she was my best friend and I love her like no other. May you have a Blessed weekend. And I missed you and I am so happy your back. As I was thinking about you on Friday. And wake up to a message from you. Hugs, and may God continue to Bless you. And thank you for always sharing just what I needed to hear.
Thanks Glenda for the kind words. I am glad you were encouraged. God knows exactly what we need. You know that is one of the purposes for this blog to encourage others through the experiences that God has brought me through. I will pray for you and your family. God is in control and He will help those that seek Him. My parents are a treasure from God and I thank Him for them every day. Be encouraged my friend and God bless!
Thank you for the Prayers and I am Praying for you and your family. I will not be able to attend Blog Elevated this year but I hope you are able to. I will miss seeing you there. Have a fantastic weekend my friend.
Thank you for your prayers they are much appreciated. It’s too early to say regarding BE for myself. I will leave it in God’s hands.
This is so beautiful, Horace! “Unconditional love” that’s the one of the most powerful gift a Godly parent can give their children.
Blessings to you, Horace
Thank you Ifeoma! Welcome back and thank you for the kind words. Yes,the beauty of unconditional love is that it’s a reflection of our Savior. Thanks again for the visiting. it is always great to hear from you. May God continue to richly bless you and yours. Have a wonderful weekend my friend!
I can picture the fear in your mother’s eyes as she watched you being wheeled away from her, trusting the doctors’ care. Horace, your story beautifully illustrates the great love between parent and child which is only a fraction of how much God loves His children. Thank you for sharing and reminding me of His love. Sweet blessings to you, friend. : )
Thank you Crystal for the visit and commenting. Yes I cannot describe my thankfulness I feel for the love my Lord and Savior has for me! My parents are the best I could ever ask for and I thank God for them each day. Thank you for the opportunity to share and welcome back! Blessings to you as well my friend:)
Horace, I happened over here from Kelly Balarie’s site, and I am so glad I did. Reading your stories and your expressions of all your parents’ love means to you touches me. As the adoptive mother of two boys, my prayer is that they will see the amazing love my husband and I have for them. Even more, that they will one day grasp the greatness of God’s love for them, as their Heavenly Abba.
I, too, have been blessed with amazing parents. Their support as I struggled through my teens, their help when I recently had surgery, their love permeates my every memory.
It’s nice to “meet” you!
Welcome Jeanne. Very nice to meet you as well! Thanks for the comment and your kinds words. I truly believe that every child feels the unconditional love of their parents. They may just not know how to admit their love in return. There is something special between a mother and her children. I am blessed by the love of my parents and I am thankful for the love of my heavenly Father. He continues to bless I as travel on the journey called life. He has been with me all the way and I look forward to accomplishing His will for my life. Thanks again for the visit. Have a wonderful week and may God bless you and yours in all your endeavors!
Horace, this is another wonderfully profound post. It breaks my heart when parents aren’t these 3 things. Every child deserves to be loved unconditionally and totally by their parents. Thank you for sharing your post with us at the Over the Moon Link Party.
Thanks Sandy for the opportunity to share. I believe any child who has parents that love unconditionally and uniquely is a beautiful blessing. Thanks for the visit and may God bless you and yours!
Horace,
This is a beautiful capture of parental love. You’re right children are not always easy but the love we feel is unconditional and unbreakable.
<3
Traci
Hello my friend! Welcome back Traci and thank you for the kind words. I agree that the love of a parent is a true blessing from God. I want to return that love to my parents every day. Have a blessed week!
I really enjoyed how you started this post with an experience of your own ( that is a good hook!). I also was blessed as I read of your love for your parents and the way their loving you trained and molded you to be able to love and accept the Heavenly Father’s love. Being a parent is a fierce kind of love. It is a fighting love, one that makes knees bleed for their bending low on the pavement of life often. And yet that parental love is not even enough to fill our souls for the void that only God can fill, is it?
I make many mistakes as a mom but is is my joy to see my children walking in the way of the Lord and finding there place smack dab in the center of HIS love. 😉
Blessings,
Dawn
Thanks for the visit and your sincere comment Dawn! Yes when I sent to post to my mother to proof for me. She loved it said it took her back to that moment in time. I am so thankful that God has blessed me with Godly parents and they get to see my transformation of seeking Christ. Like you mentioned, all those years of them on their knees praying for me are a huge reason why I am seeking him. the power of prayer has been revealed to me in so many ways. Thank you again for visiting. Have a wonderful weekend and may god bless you and yours!
What a story! How beautifully it illustrates a parent’s love. Thank you for writing this, Horace. It makes me appreciate more the love of my parents for me (which as a parent I understand). This also points to God’s parental love. Thank you.
Thank you for visiting Betsy! Always great to hear from you. I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. My mother said she really enjoyed it as well although it was a scary moment for both of us. I am so thankful for the parents that God has blessed me with. His love for me shows itself everyday. Thanks again for the visit. Have a wonderful weekend and God bless you and yours!