Carol Moehrle
We are blessed to have many family members living close by, so when we celebrate or have a family dinner, many of them show up to enjoy the festivities.
My sister-in-law's father, Bob, is a regular in our home and is with us for most family gatherings. Last weekend, I invited my dad and mom over for Sunday dinner. Jake, our three-year-old grandson, was in the kitchen helping with preparations and chatting nonstop (as most three-year-olds can do).
We were setting the table and running through the list of family members who would be coming. He counted the plates and silverware to make sure we were ready.
As I welcomed my dad and mom into the house, Jake stood beside me, looked up, and said, "Where's Bob? Is Bob coming?"
It melted my heart to hear 3-year-old Jake concerned about 89-year-old Bob, and I felt bad when I had to explain to him that I had forgotten to invite Bob to dinner. As only a forgiving 3-year-old could, Jake said, "It's okay, Nana. I'll help you remember next time."
I learned a valuable lesson from my grandson that day: the power of forgiveness.
I'll never again forget to invite Bob. Thank you, Jacob.