"Precious"

Tonight as I lay Gideon to sleep the word precious came to mind. Actually I think of that word often when I watch him sleep. I'm sure most, if not all, parents can relate. :) Anyway I looked up the meaning and here's Merriam Webster definition: "of great value or high price; highly esteemed or cherished."

Though I'm not sure exactly why, I remember years ago I started to despise the word. I'm guessing it was because of people sounding extremely cheesy, annoying, or even creepy when using it. Like when Gollum in the Lord of the Rings continuously said, "my precious" whenever cradling the ring.

Okay, onto something less creepy...

I remember watching Gideon sleep the day he was born. I was in complete awe of the beautiful little human being before my eyes and had few words to say except some quiet thank yous over and over to our Maker. I don't know about you but watching a baby sleep, especially one that is your own, does things to the heart that few others can do.

All in all, I'm happy to say Gideon has redeemed the word precious in my mind. :)