teen pact

Although we have heard about the Teen Pact leadership school for years, we were not aware of what an amazing program it is until we had the opportunity to go this March.  At Gehrig's age, they offer a one-day class that teaches much about leadership, government and making an impact on your state and beyond.

We were grateful to borrow some cute growny clothes and headed to the state capitol for a mama-son date day :)

As the students arrived, they were asked to play a box game as a type of ice breaker to get to know others.  I felt a little nervous for Gehrig as I realized that he is rarely in a situation that he doesn't know someone or doesn't have at least one buddy with him.  As I sat back in the parent's gallery, I was amazed and so proud to watch him jump right in...

The leaders introducing themselves...  They are all teens who started in the program when they were younger and have worked their way up.  I cannot say enough great things about how polished and kind-hearted they were!  And the hope.  It was so so encouraging to see young people having passion for the Lord, our country and leading well...and training other students to do the same.

As Gehrig was finishing up his second year of Bible drills at our church about this time, he was ready for their time in the Word and quickly looking up scriptures that pertained to leadership and authority.  They reminded the students that the Word is our sword and practiced "unsheathing" it and finding several passages.

He was so cute and excited being one of the first ones to find it every time...Bible thrills has trained him well!

We also walked and prayed through the Senate and House of Representatives.  Here, one of our senators talked to us about the bills that had come through that week and how much he cares for our state and country...and strongly desires to leave it in good shape for this next generation.  It was incredibly inspiring and made me thankful for the hard work that they do.

As we toured around, this teen leader stopped the group to point out Gehrig's correct buttoning of his jacket and explain the history behind that being the case.  It cracked me up inside because of course, we had no idea there was a right and wrong way.  This is the first time Gehr has even worn one!

Such a cool view and experience.  And thankful for his easy way of making friends wherever he is :)

We ended the day with the students presenting their bills and seeing a little bit of how the lawmaking process happens...

(Even going to sub-committees)

All in all, it was so incredibly well-done.  I was convicted by how I judge politics and its process, instead of praying for them all and realizing the great opportunity for influence and shaping our nation for Him.  As a mama, it would be hard for me to choose that life for my children, but I am thankful for many who do the hard work there for the right reasons.  And regardless of what God calls the Gs to, I pray that they stay attuned to what is going on and always pray for and support their leaders.

Such a gift to have a full day with my sweet boy (thanks Jenn for keeping the girls!).  I loved the time there together and the great conversation as we traveled too.  It was definitely one of those hit-pause experiences of parenting when you realize that they are hitting a new stage of childhood and won't be little much longer.  Handsome like his daddy :)...