We had Cora's baptism in Kuna so that all four grandparents could be in attendance. We knew Grandpa Cox shouldn't travel up here to Spokane and Cora even invited Grandma Watson and asked her to participate in the program, but Grandma just couldn't do it. I'm so grateful we were able to get it planned out in Kuna (we had a few hiccups and I wasn't sure it would happen). Only grandparents were invited so it was just such a really, really special night.
Her decision to be baptized was not taken lightly. I wanted to make sure it was something she decided for herself, not something she was coerced to do. I wasn't sure if she would physically go through with it. Cora was scared!!! She absolutely hates being the center of attention which was why no other family members were invited. She wasn't sure about the water or her clothes or the way the ordinance was supposed to be performed or anything. Sure, she's attended baptisms before, but it's just different with her. We prepared her a lot in terms of what to expect and what's going to be said. We literally did all we could to prepare her, it was all on her now.
When it came time for the actual baptism, I walked back with her to the font. Once I opened the door and she saw the few people staring at her, she was not going in! She wasn't going in there for anybody! I closed the door and just told her to ignore the people, just look at Daddy and take his hand. And that's exactly what she did without looking back.
I was asked to give a talk on the Holy Ghost so I had a few scriptures written down with a thought or two. But as soon as I stood up to speak, I was completely overcome with one realization - with Cora receiving the Holy Ghost my Mama heart could rest!!! The tears just would not stop because that realization meant the world to me. Her and I have always been joined at the hip. I have been with her through every doctor appointment, therapy session, surgical procedure, blood draw, test result, dietician consult, test after test after test, late night, sleepless night, and a plethora of tears and prayers. Now that she's older I can't always be with Cora and now I don't need to, the Holy Ghost will be. It was such a profound moment and I don't know how to put it into words or eloquently explain my feelings and the beautiful witness born to my heart that she is going to be ok. She will make it. And in those moments when she isn't ok and she can't make it, the Holy Ghost will help her, push her, encourage her, rescue her, and love her as much as me. My Mama heart can rest. Go conquer the world, darling girl!
After it was all done we all went out to eat and then followed up with ice cream. As soon as we sat down with our ice cream Cora was back on her feet with some slick dance moves. She really loves to dance! Congratulations my darling, you did it.
