Lucas Charles Mason came into this world on March 14, 1995. I was 28 years old. Patty was 23. We were kids having kids. We thought we were grown up, but it was only the Grace of God that allowed us to not make major mistakes raising our boys. No way we were mature enough on our own.
Luke had a full day. We got up early and went to Wal-Mart hoping to find ammunition. No luck unless we wanted $1 each 12 gauge shells.
Then Luke headed off to college for one morning class.
When he got home we asked him where he wanted to go to lunch for his birthday. His choice? The food court at White Marsh Mall so he could get Bourbon Chicken and Lo Mein noodles (without vegetables…)
Then we hit several pawn shops looking for a rifle. He can legally buy them now and wanted to get something in his name. Nearly bought a Western Field .30-30 lever action with a scope. Old West Cowboy rifle. Only problem? No ammo at the shop, and no prospects of getting any. There is the ultimate gun control. Scare people into thinking the Government is going to take their guns so they rush out and buy up every box of ammo. Now no one else can shoot a gun because no one can get ammunition!
So Luke passed up on the rifle since it would be only a display piece. He’ll probably use his birthday money to get an iPhone.
He had Art class last night from 6-10pm. When he got home we had ice cream cake and watched the remake of “Red Dawn” starring Chris Hemsworth.
Luke fell asleep halfway through.
Big day though, and I thought much yesterday about time. How just a little while ago I was putting him on my shoulders, throwing him up in the air, changing diapers. And now? He’s 6’3”, 210lbs, driving everywhere, working two jobs, finishing his senior year in high school while also finishing his freshman year in college. And in a few days, another 18 years will have passed and Luke will be middle aged, a husband, father, and probably a pastor himself.
Happy Birthday Bud, even though it’s a day late in the blogosphere.
I know God has great things in store for you.
Dad.
