Proud Mary

Last night was the annual Christmas program for the Notre Dame School. It is our favorite event of the season for a very personal reason. After forgettable experiences elsewhere, our oldest son has thrived at this little school in the shadow of downtown Dallas. They have treated him with respect and have expected the same in return. They have encouraged him creatively, understanding his disability and believing in his humanity. They have loved him with enthusiasm. The Christmas program typifies all that. Steve and the other students have a chance to shine. And they seize it! Joy runs wild.
When Sister Maureen finalized the cast, she might have guessed that Mary and Joseph would wave to the audience. Lots of kids do. But who could have foreseen their spontaneous burst of pride? And who could resist when Mary waved, pointed to the baby doll in her arms, and mouthed words to the audience? Who could have doubted, when she flashed a proud thumbs-up, that there was ever a more exuberant Mary, enjoying a more fully human moment of celebration?
When in the future I read Mary's words from Luke 1, "My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior," this is the face I will want to remember.

Bob