"Every good and perfect gift is from above" James 1:17

Sophia made her Communion on Saturday. What a glorious occasion for our family to witness. Ever since her older sister made her Communion 2 years ago, Sophia could not understand why she couldn't receive Jesus like the rest of us. This was very challenging to explain so we told her she would make her Communion soon! Well, 2 years was along time to wait but Sophia only threw herself onto the floor in protest once at the foot of the priest. For the most part, she would gladly file up with her arms crossed against her chest and bow for a blessing. She would turn to me and say "not yet?". So, you can imagine the days leading up to Communion when I was able to finally say, "Only 3 more days, only 2 more days". Her glee and excitement spilled over and I have to say I felt joyous on Communion day. I thought I would cry like a baby (I left that to the rest of the relatives) but I couldn't help but smile broadly. The best part is I think she "gets it", as much as any other 2nd grader gets it. I still have that tiny bit of resentment that she should have made her Communion as a student at the Catholic school my other daughter attends (no special ed offered at the Catholic school). Instead, she made it along with her CCD class. I did love her class and her teachers were amazing. She also knew quite a few girls in the class which made it feel more special. She looked like an absolute angel. I did wind up crying the next day (Sunday) when our priest invited any First Communicants present at that mass to come up to the altar. There were about 6 altogether and he reached out and took Sophia's hand and led her to the top step next to him. The sun was streaming through the windows behind the altar making it glow, the priest's robes sparkled gold, and Sophia all in white looked like an angel. It was really moving and I was proud to see her up there, hopefully giving many parishioners something to smile and think about.