Adrenalin

My son has always liked costumes. I made him new ones each Halloween. He would raid my closet to get items which accessorized his Tree, Pirate, his Link (Legend of Zelda), Jedi Knight, Elvis, Inflatable Pumpkin, Pokemon, swordsman, hobbit, Ninja and more.

When he decided he wanted to switch from being a forward in hockey to goaltending, I quizzed him hard and long to try to ensure it wasn't just for the equipment - goalies look cooler. Now he's a freestyle skier and wears the most unique combination of clothing (overalls with the straps hanging down around his knees, baggy shirts (5XL), full face masks,

As I look at his choice of a future career in Law Enforcement, I notice that uniforms and special equipment are all a part of that. But more than anything, I think he likes to choose things that are adrenalin rich. Goaltender. Freestyle skier. Police officer. Calculated risks.

A mother's heart is heavy. Each of these carry a higher risk of injury and death. Of course, I know we will all eventually die, and one might as well go doing what one loves, but it's still difficult to think through on my own behalf. I still want to protect him, but that is no longer my role. I don't stop him or discourage him. I support him. I try to provide opportunities for him to get the best equipment, info and training. But I certainly think about the risks.

The upside is, the greater the risk, the greater the reward. This is where faith kicks in. Even if something happens that we would consider negative or even devastating, I have to believe that God does not allow anything that he will not carry us through.

Sleep in heavenly peace.

I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O LORD, make (us) dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8