The moments before bed are the best times to whisper into the ears of our children; to tell them how they delight our lives, the ways in which we love them, and to place a soft kiss upon their tender skin. The other night I had Ella in my arms, rocking her before placing her in her crib. The lights were off, the usual glow of the moon gently making its way into the room, the flicker of the "flameless-candle" that reads, "Be still and know that I am God..." danced on the ceiling. As Ella's eyes softened and began to pave the way for slumber I whispered into her ear the words, "There are so many people that love you. We will all help to take care of you." I stroked her under her chin and she nuzzled her head against my chest, seemingly understanding the words that found her ear. After our prayer I placed her gently into her crib, kissed her goodnight, and allowed slumber to wrap its arms around our little girl. The next evening Lindsay and I walke...
