magic

Human beings are amazing. We start out as a tiny zygote growing inside our mother. We emerge vulnerable and adorable. Then, we grow without realizing it. We learn to speak, to walk, to read and so on. If all goes well, we become adults with a world full of opportunities depending on our actions.

This thought occurred to me, though it's nothing new, when my sister sent a video of my seven-year-old niece acting out and lip-synching to "It's A Hard Knock Life" from the musical "Annie."

I have watched her every step of the way, but it still amazes me that she is the same person as that 5 lb. 5 oz. infant born in 2007. Even more impressive is that she is a strong and confident young woman. She enjoys trying new activities and foods. She is very good at reading, writing, running and creating art. 

It seems like magic that the baby has turned into such an amazing person. Of course, it's not magic at all. It has to do with her genes, her nurturing parents and her spirit. 

I'm so glad I get to witness the growth of my nieces, nephew and children of my friends. One of whom just finished her first year of college where she is studying to be a biomedical researcher (I'm not sure if I chose the right term). How amazing is that?!

I hope you have equal joy in watching the young people in your lives. If you do, don't forget to tell them. Your encouragement helps them become confident, happy people.