If I had never

If I had never heard a child’s laugh, I might not believe happiness exists.

If I had never marveled in amazement from the foot of Niagara Falls or the top of Pikes Peak, I might not believe in the truly spectacular wonders this world offers.

If I had never given birth to a child, I might not believe in miracles, or touched their tiny fingers, I might not believe in God.

If I had never been loved unselfishly, I might not believe in true love.

If I had never been praised or heard applause in my honor, I might believe I had no talent.

If I had never been comforted when I hurt, I might not believe in compassion or have reason to reach out myself to others.

If I had never been hugged by my mother, lifted up by my father, I might not believe families are worth fighting for.

If I had never been taken fishing or taught to play softball or encouraged to try harder or given the things I needed, I might believe no one cared.

But, I have heard a child’s laugh.

© Photo by Judy Mae Bingman

I have heard the thunderous roar from the foot of Niagara Falls and looked cautiously over the edge of Pikes Peak. I have given birth to a child, been loved, been praised, been comforted, been hugged. I have been taken and taught and encouraged and cared for.

So,

• I do believe in happiness and God.

• I know fairy tale love exists.

• I know both my talent and my family are a gift.

• I know people care.

Let us never forget these things we know — even on days there is no child’s laugh to cheer us, no natural wonder to amaze us, no friend’s hand to touch us.

When no one is close enough to love us or hug us or lift us or care for us — still, believe.

Believe. Remember and believe.