ISAIAH

“It takes a village to raise a child”
-author unknown

Isaiah, this is an old quote that gets used a lot when a child is brought into this world, but it really is true! The Village is intricate and made up of important members. Each person plays such an important role. The really beautiful thing is that your village is designed for you and it doesn’t go away at age 18, when technically you are no longer a child.

Your village is comprised of exactly who you need to survive and succeed. The wise ones who have been around a bit longer and experienced life, like your grandparents and great grandparents are an invaluable resource! Especially when it comes to unconditional love and encouragement. They are among the loudest cheerleaders in the village. They will always raise you up and speak blessings over you. Your little sister will always have your back. She will always support you and she is quietly proud of you! Then there are aunts and uncles who are there to ease you into adulthood. They are also unwavering in their commitment to you with the extra benefit of remembering what it is like to be in this stage of life, because it wasn’t long ago for them. You have so many of their qualities, so use them when you need advice and support!

There is an underrated section of the village that I want to make you aware of because they are the silent heart beat of the village. These are the friends of your dad and I that we confide in and ask for prayers over you when it’s needed. These are the villagers that you probably don’t see or notice, but they have walked along side of us and supported us while we have done our best to be your parents. This life is not designed to be done alone and surrounding yourself with good people who will love on you and those you love is one of the best blessings you will ever have!

Each of our villages is made up of a unique set of members that are designed to stretch us and grow us into the blessing we are to be for others. Your village also includes coaches that have pushed you to the point of frustration, encouraged you, praised you and molded you. Anyone that’s in your village knows that sports is your love language and it’s awesome to see what God has done for you by placing these men in your life!

The rowdy crowd in the village, your teammates and friends. They are what brings you laughter, light heartedness and joy. Some of these villagers will move out during different seasons of your life, but be aware of them and grateful for them during the time they are there. Some of them will always stay in your village although they may move a bit further out. Both of them are cherished blessings in a persons life. Appreciate the gift of friendship and treat it with respect!

The leader of your village is Christ. He is a gracious, loving and forgiving leader thank goodness! You will mess up and make mistakes and have failures. Your leader will never leave you or forsake you EVER! You have already shown that this is a part of the village you respect and love. He has given you spiritual leaders who have mentored you and set an example to follow. This is a hugely important part of your village. God will continue to pour his blessings out over you while also refining you to be a man after His own heart!

We are so incredibly thankful to be in Your village Isaiah! You have blessed us and helped us grow too. To say we are excited and proud is an understatement. Congratulations from Your Village! Today we celebrate you! We love you!