In the front row of life…

This morning I was with my friend and her family for mass, we weren’t even late but walking in with the opening hymn, the only place for all seven of us was the front row…..oh my! I am not a front row lover, but I know the kids enjoy it. There are less distractions and they can see everything since the alter is only about 10 feet away.

As I was sitting there, I was reflecting on the moments that happened in that church, with that family, ones where I had a front row seat. My friend’s wedding day (15 years already!), her grandparents funeral masses, baptisms, and first communions. All moments when family and friends gather round to pray and to celebrate.

My very favorite moment in that church is the baptism of my godson. It was a banner “front row” moment. I was holding him over the baptismal font when the deacon was praying and pouring the water over his head. I was part of his very first sacrament, the moment he officially entered the church, a powerful moment for sure.

What occurred to me during mass (yes, I really was listening today), is that God always has a front row seat to our lives. Think about it. if you go to a concert or sporting event, the people in the front row are the biggest fans– they sing along and cheer the loudest. They are the cheerleaders, the supportive faces the people see when they look into the crowd.

Who is in my front row, cheering me on? Well, there is God, my family and friends, possibly even coworkers and acquaintances. It comforts me to know that all I need to do is look to my “front row” when I need guidance and support.

Who are your front row people? These are the people in your life that show up for the important moments, laugh with you, support you, and lift you up when needed. We all have them, even if we don’t see them all the time, they are there.

In turn whose front row are you sitting in? I sit in many front rows these days, of friends, family, former students, and coworkers. I will cheer you on when you don’t think I should. I will remind you that you are awesome, even when the world tells you differently. Just like I do, you’ve got back up. All you have to do is look, they are right in the front row. 🙂