( A Simple Poem inspired by a discussion between our 4 year old when she made mistakes that even the biggest mistakes aren’t enough to make us love her less – a window into God’s unconditional love and grace for us.)

Pee on me,

I’ll wipe you and me clean and make funny faces to make you laugh.

I will always love you.

Cry all night because you’re gassy,

I’ll run to the midnight pharmacy to get colic water to help you feel better, and never eat curry again.

I will always love you.

Scrape your knee, because you didn’t listen.

I’ll patch your wound and wipe your tears, but also tell you to listen and be careful.

I will always love you.

Break our most expensive plate,

We’ll clean up the pieces together, through hugs, tears, and I’ll remind you not to play ball in the house.

I will always love you.

Say the words that cut deep, “I hate you,”

I’ll hear your hurt and help figure out what is wrong so we can become stronger and better.

I will always love you.

Get a bad grade,

I’ll show you how to do the problem set, and tell you we can always try again and grow.

I will always love you.

Make bad choices that hurt you and hurt others,

I hurt just as much when I see your pain. I’ll hold your hand and say, “Let’s make it right.”

I will always love you.

Ignore me,

But I hear you, loud and clear, and I won’t stop telling you I believe in you.

I will always love you.

Smile and unfold in who you are becoming,

And my heart swells with joy, seeing you discover yourself, but I’ll remind you there is so much more ahead.

My love is always there.

But it is not always soft.

Sometimes love is a comforting hug and warm kisses.

Sometimes love is hard stares and strong words.

Because I love you, I believe in you.

Because I love you, I will always speak truth.

Because I love you, I will always be there.