If you just see Niko on occasion, you might describe him as tall, blue-eyed, shaggy-haired (I've been calling him 'Shep the Sheepdog'), and fun-loving but shy.
If you spend time with him on a regular basis, you might talk about his love of board games, his quick math skills, his strength and speed in sports, his incredible memory, his interest in maps, and his generally over-the-top wild and crazy boy-ness.
Having now loved and lived Niko day in and day out for 5 years, I am blessed to see not only the facts about who and how he is, but also the trajectories of who and how he is becoming.
I see the way he deliberately asks his little cousin to repeat himself in an attempt to decipher what the words mean. The way he gingerly holds a new baby and notices how perfect she is. The way he graciously lets Emerson play 'Trouble' with him, although his little brother plays by his own rules. The way he is so much more likely to melt down in tears of heart-wrenching disappointment than of angry rage. The way he gently redirects Lachlan, using his baby-voice and trying to distract him (from destroying yet another Lego masterpiece). The way he excitedly looks forward to "our small group" coming over and is a little offended that they are not solely coming to play with him. The way he is endearingly disappointed in himself when he has a rough day of listening. The way he uncontainably leaps into a bear-hug after doing something he is exceptionally proud of. The way he confidently teaches Emerson how to stand in net in order to make a few saves. The way he courageously overcomes his fears as he ventures out on his own and even reaches out to make new friends.
The way these glimpses reveal Niko's trajectory makes me thankful for where he has been, proud of where he is now, and excited for where he will be going
The way God is glorified in Niko is spectacular in these and so many moments.
The way God sees this wonderful boy He created and entrusted us with is evident in these portraits.
The way I love, guide, teach, discipline, struggle, wonder, and pray is worth it for these rewards.
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