It was a fall gathering, by invitation only. The emphasis was on the children, but the great-grandparents were included in the invitation. Simply watching the energy of eight, energy-packed little ones transfers a portion of vitality to Othel and me, so we were pleased to get our invitation.

The event was at the home of three of our great-grandsons. A collection of pumpkins and fall flowers at their front door welcomed us to the family gathering. One diaper-clad host answered our doorbell ring with a squeal. One toddler brother was seated in his high chair — anxious to get on with his meal, and big brother was suiting up in his Mr. Incredible muscle costume.

Their mom had hung streamers in the doorway that created a new form of entertainment. The streamers’ durability would be greatly challenged, but laughter makes up a big part of the blessed child’s development. 

The streamers and cousins’ toys entertained the young guests until one of them rushed out into the back yard. The fall’s clear sky, forgiving temp, and space to run were optimum ingredients for the cluster of cousins. Balloons, a picnic table covered with pumpkins, paint and brushes kept their attention until the trampoline won its turn. I recalled how my own parents would enjoy observing all the family activities on similar family occasions. Here we were, carrying out their roles. 

Our chef grandson contributed to the evening with his famous chili recipe. The kids bypassed the chili for helpings of mac and cheese. Then the hostess bags were passed out to all the little ones — sugary treats and fun souvenirs. Sippy cups of apple juice were randomly shared among the thirsty even though parents intended “single ownership.” Kids give much less attention to germs than their parents do.

Another parent surprised the children with neon colored cupcakes. Lots of bright yellow frosting and decorative faces with candy eyes topped the sweet treats which not a single walking child turned down. How is it that sweets always outrank healthy food groups in popularity? 

I wanted to call a family meeting and pressure the little ones to listen as I would remind and emphasize the joys that were a norm for them. Their homes were free of bomb shelters, sounds of sirens — warning to take cover, danger of terrorist attacks and none of them carried scars from school explosions.

Later that evening I got a text from one of the great-grands’ mother. Their four-year-old confided that she had been disobedient. She had been instructed to eat only one cupcake, but she had slipped inside and eaten a second one along with three candy eyes.

Confession is a wonderful trait for a child. In fact, it’s a necessary trait for all who call themselves Christian. Evenings like the one we enjoyed last week are tremendous blessings for a nation that’s turning its back on God and His Word. I watch in disbelief how anti-Semitism is blinding our young people — how abortion is used with the word “reproductive” — how lawlessness goes without repercussions — how quickly our nation is getting used to the dark. I ask, “How long Lord, will Your mercy hold back Your wrath?”

Letters to Camille Anding may be sent to P.O. Box 551, Brookhaven, MS 39602.