(The fam welcomes Josh- 10 minutes after he’s been born!)
Hear ye! Hear ye! Today, the Clan of Barclays celebrate one of our manly treasures:
Joshua Charles- meaning “God is my salvation” and Charles (in honor of my Dad) “a good man”.
Josh- Joshie- J-man- Skip- JC- Joshua- these are all the names we call our 6’2″, third in birth order son, who just shed his his teens and entered his twenties.
My biggest baby (10lb 2oz) and easiest birth, Josh decided to join our clan on a beautiful spring day in April. How excited the children were to welcome another baby! They jumped on the bed, clamoring to be the first to hold him. It was better than Christmas and he was everyones baby! A cheerful, peaceful baby and toddler, I laugh when we watch old home movies, how Josh smiled almost constantly! Quiet- huge brown eyes- still waters run deep- that boy was content to let everyone talk as he looked on and smiled- just enjoying life.
I remember he was quite taken with the Christian singer Carman. He loved wielding his sword and singing “Great God” while acting out a ferocious spiritual battle where he defeated every evil! I’ll be forever greatful that God’s hand protected him from death. One evening, right before his birthday, we were going to church. He took one step out in front of our large passenger van and a car hit him. Everything slowed as I watched him be thrown high into the air and then fall backward onto the street. The ambulance arrived, the paramedics assessed a broken leg, and Josh told us how he felt “an angel” push him back away from the car. What a miracle!
Today, Josh is studying criminal justice at Washburn University. He’s a Cadet for the police. His motto is to “defend, respect, protect, and honor”. Jeff and he have hiked Pike’s Peak, taken bike trips and enjoy guy movies. He is like a modern day knight to me- full of ideas of right and service, justice and keeping peace. He has a hilarious sense of humor but it’s tempered with a quiet and thoughtful approach to life. He loves to contemplate. 🙂 He’s the only “son” left in the house now, and I’m so blessed by his servant’s heart and willingness to help at the drop of a hat. He is truly a man after God’s heart.
Surprising Treasures: Psalm 144: 4 Oh Lord, make our sons in their prime like sturdy oak trees………
A son who follows the Lord and His ways are a delight to his parents!
Yes Cindy I remember well the day he was hit by a car. That alone should help people see the miracle that God did on that day. I cant imagine Josh being an adult because I remember him as that little boy…but I do remember his bravery during that time and how God is quick to answer prayers. You are so blessed to know your answers to life. Josh is truly a blessing to you …but …then so are all your children. You are an amazing mom and truly a proverbs woman. I sure miss you . Someday we will see each other again.
Hopefully, we’ll get back to Illinois this summer- would love to see you- sad thing is, with the kids all growing up- everyone has summer jobs now except Bethany so it limits who can come back with us- 🙁 Have a great day!! hugs