WOW! I think neither Erik or I was prepared for our oldest to be baptised!! I literally walked around in disbelief that she was turning 8 - I was sure that we must have forgotten a birthday. I was really thrilled that she was baptized in the same dress I was baptized in at age 8. My Mom is a fantastic seamstress and In case you didn't come - Grace was baptised - 3x. In the faith of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints certain prayers and ordinances it is important to do and say 100% right. While I believe that the God considers the intent of our heart and our actions I can also respect the importance of tradition and being consistent in performing ordinances. This was the first time Erik had performed a baptism and Grace is not too enthusiastic about being underwater :) While it was her choice to be baptized at age 8 - her agreement was to baptized 1x so I don't think she knew what she was getting into when it took 3x. After the third and successful time she said to me, 'I don't ever want to do that again'. She quickly felt proud and thought it was neat that she was baptized 3x! Erik felt so awful that it took 3 times to say the prayer right and get all her parts; hair, dress, etc immersed under water completely!
I had really struggled with Grace getting baptized and the ability of an 8 year old to really comprehend the decision before her. Over weeks of prayer, struggle and reading I came to a conclusion that suited me, Grace is on a journey and no one except Jesus Christ can fully and perfectly comprehend what it means to be baptized. Being baptized at its simplest idea means that we are saying, Jesus, I want to follow - I want to go on a life journey that emulates you. And so, that is what Grace has done.
(I found this video months after this post and it fits perfectly)
