Time-out number six with Danny B. We spend more time with him against the wall than all our other activities combined. And Danny is happy as a lark sitting there, much to my frustration. I, on the other hand, grow increasingly exasperated.

"Danny, you gotta calm down." I said trying to keep the edge out of my voice, "It's hard to do the fun stuff we have planned when you're doing flips across the floor."

"Really?" Danny smiled.

I nodded, "Really. Just try Danny."

Later that day he surprised me with five solid minutes of good behavior and participation. Not wanting to let such an anomaly pass I pulled him aside.

"Thank you for making a change." I pat him on the back.

He put his arm around my shoulder and gave me a saccharine smile, "You are so welcome."

I had to laugh, "What's that on your wrist?"

He raised his hand, showing off his bracelet, "It's a WWJD."

"Do you know what that stands for?"

"Oh sure." He quickly answered as his eyes made a sweep of the entire room.

"What?"

"What would Jesus do..." he rattled off.

"What would he do?"

Danny shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know. I wish he was here."

Kay, our deacon, joined the conversation, "He is here."

"I know, I know." Danny sighed. "But I mean really here. You know, so that He could sit in my lap."

And then he went running off to a group of our kids that were ready to be fueled by his humor and antics. Danny can make anybody smile.

As I think about Danny's wish I silently reply, "Danny He is here. And trust me, when it comes to laps, you're in His."

* all names and identifying details have been changed to protect anonymity. © Amy Beth Augustin Barlow 2004