I was laying by JT and talking with him before he went to bed about a month ago. We were having a great discussion. After a few minutes I pointed to the poster of Albert Einstein by Mason's bed and asked JT if he knew who that was. Without hesitation he proclaimed, "Albert Einstein". I was impressed. We talked for a minute about how smart Albert was, when all of the sudden JT matter of factly said, "I know who is smarter than him." My curiosity was peaked and I waited for him to say, Socrates, Plato, Sir Issac Newton, Galileo, or Benjamin Franklin. 🙂 He smiled his happy smiled and stated, "DAD!" My heart swelled inside itself and grew a few sizes for this little five year old boy. For him it didn't matter if you can solve a mathematical and scientific equation that takes two chalk boards, is in tune with the complex philosophies of human nature, or be an extraordinary inventor and political leader.
What JT knows is that his dad, Stephen Parker, loves him, takes care of him, and will always protect him physically and spiritually. His dad knows and lives the teaching of Jesus Christ and the purpose of why we are here and where we are going. His dad is intelligent enough to know he doesn't know everything and is humble and teachable. His dad persists in learning more and acquiring knowledge and actively seeks to grow intellectually. His dad is brave and strong and willing to work hard for and provide for his family and take care of them. His dad is worthy of bearing the priesthood of God on the earth and presides in righteousness and with respect to those in his home. His dad is ready and able to serve anyone in need and share his time and talents with others freely.
JT has come to know he can trust his dad and depend on him for the most important answers of life. I am so glad that JT taught me that night to remember and acknowledge His dad for what he is. We are blessed to live in the same home and learn from such an amazing man. I am personally grateful for Stephen and the love, devotion, and care he gives to his family. He is truly deserving of such a compliment from his young & sincere son.
One thing I have learned over the past several years working with children is that they are the most emotionally intelligent of us all. They have a great emotional IQ for assessing human character. I love that and have a testimony of Mosiah 3:19…look it up! 🙂