To see your life unfold

To my dearest brother:

This morning I watched your confirmation. I felt very blessed for the chance to take part in the laying on of hands, and to be there for that moment. I was so proud of you. Daddy cried, and I definitely teared up a bit.

Below are the lyrics to one of my favorite hymns, which came to mind as I sat watching you affirm your baptism. While the "I" in the song is supposed to be God, I feel a very similar connection. I was indeed there when you were born, and I remember the day you were baptized. And I'll be there for you for the rest of your life.

God bless you today and always, little brother.

I was there to hear your borning cry,
I'll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized,
to see your life unfold. 

I was there when you were but a child,
with a faith to suit you well;
In a blaze of light you wandered off
to find where demons dwell."

"When you heard the wonder of the Word
I was there to cheer you on;
You were raised to praise the living Lord,
to whom you now belong. 

If you find someone to share your time
and you join your hearts as one,
I'll be there to make your verses rhyme
from dusk 'till rising sun.

In the middle ages of your life,
not too old, no longer young,
I'll be there to guide you through the night,
complete what I've begun. 

When the evening gently closes in,
and you shut your weary eyes,
I'll be there as I have always been
with just one more surprise.

I was there to hear your borning cry,
I'll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized,
to see your life unfold.