Good For The Soul

Last week I took my children to a restaurant. My
six-year-old son asked if he could say grace. As
we bowed our heads he said, "God is good, God is
great. Thank you for the food, and I would even
thank you more if Mom gets us ice cream for
dessert. And Liberty and justice for all! Amen!"

Along with the laughter from the other customers
nearby I heard a woman remark, "That's what's wrong
with this country. Kids today don't even know how
to pray. Asking God for ice cream! Why, I never!"

Hearing this, my son burst into tears and asked
me, "Did I do it wrong? Is God mad at me?"

As I held him and assured him that he had done a
terrific job and God was certainly not mad at him,
an elderly gentleman approached the table. He
winked at my son and said, "I happen to know that
God thought that was a great prayer." "Really?" my
son asked. "Cross my heart," the man replied. Then
in a theatrical whisper he added (indicating the
woman whose remark had started this whole thing),
"Too bad she never asks God for ice cream. A little
ice cream is good for the soul sometimes."

Naturally, I bought my kids ice cream at the end
of the meal. My son stared at his for a moment
and then did something I will remember the rest of
my life. He picked up his sundae and without a
word, walked over and placed it in front of the
woman. With a big smile he told her, "Here, this
is for you. Ice cream is good for the soul
sometimes; and my soul is good already."

Sometimes we all need some ice cream.

I hope God sends you some Ice Cream today!