"I am here"

So, on Friday, my act of kindness was to respond to an email from the boys' mother in a way that was as kind as could possibly be.  She sent some communication that seemed as though it was meant to hurt, which could have had me responding in a way that was negative (kind of an "in your face, you <insert derogatory word here>" way).  Instead, I chose not to throw things back in her face, and instead did my best to focus on the needs of the boys and the issues at hand (which was not something she focused on).  My response was not perfect, but it was far better (nicer) than it would have been if I'd let myself react in the way that I think she wanted me to react. 

It's interesting for me to serve the boys' mom (not that this was all that serving; I just chose to be nice instead of the witch that I am capable of being when you mess with me or my family).  She has been the product of many a prayer.  I have found that praying for her and wishing her the best allows me to not dislike her so, which not only benefits me, but it also benefits the boys.

Saturday's act of kindness revolved around my Grandma.  I called her to check in and see how she was doing.  She lives alone and far away, so I rarely get to see her.  But I like to check in with her via phone every so often (as opposed to email).  She's the only grandparent I have left, so I want her to know that she is appreciated! 

It's funny.  Everytime I call my Grandma, I'm reminded of my past communication with my Grandpa.  My Grandpa was not very educated.  He was a Mississippi farm boy in a time when the harvest was more imporant than going to school.  He may have had an 8th grade education.  Anyway, he would send me "letters" when I was in college.  They were hand drawn pictures of him doing something different each time, with the accompanying phrase, "I am here.  Grandpa."  In return, I would send him hand drawn pictures of me on campus doing various things and an accompanying "I am here."  It was our thing.  He passed away several years ago, so of course that stopped, but I've tried hard to keep in touch with my Grandma ever since, because I know how important it is.

Today (Sunday), I dug out our chess sets for my boys to play with.  My 17 year old loves chess, but had no idea where we kept our chess set.  I found it for him so that he and my 11 year old could play, and they had a great time doing it!  I really love watching our boys interact together (when it's going well, that is!).  We have a very unique blended family, so when I see these two boys bonding like brothers, it warms my heart!