Written by: Phyllis Ann Doros
Copyright © 1951
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The Big Step

Chris -1951

       Today, for the first time, Christy walked to Sunday School alone.
......that is, almost alone.  I went the first block with her and
saw her safely across the street.  Then I stood there at the corner,
watching her go away from me, toward the big, brick church with the
open doors.

       I saw her walk slowly, like a little lady....  then faster and
faster until finally, she was running with all the excitement of
youth.  I watched her bundled figure, bobbing up and down, while
she became smaller and smaller, and not once did she look back.

       ....This is the day, I thought.  This is the day I must learn
to let my daughter walk on her own two feet.  She is growing up!
Now, I must stand to one side and only offer my hand when she needs
it.

       Feeling a quick chill, I realized my daughter was no longer
our baby.  She was growing up just a bit faster, than we had planned.

       I turned and walked back home alone, without a little girl
holding tightly to my hand........  But I smiled, for I had seen her
run to go to Sunday school.  I knew she was happy to enter where the
bells bid her welcome.  I knew she was prepared and anxious to meet
the outside world, all by herself!

Chris -1983