Conquering the Dark Side

When we arrived at D-Land we received a little paper that had a schedule of different attractions.  One said, "Jedi Training".  In case I haven't mentioned, Loumy is quite the little Star Wars aficionado so we decided we'd better check it out.  We found a show time and realized what was happening almost too late.  There was a big stage and on the ground in front were crowds of children with hopes of being chosen for the "training".  I quickly found a spot for Loumy to sit and squished in beside some other parents off to the side. 

Soon a jedi appeared and began to do some fancy light sabre moves.  He announced that he was going to begin choosing some children out of the crowd to do the training.  Loumy looked at me with eyes full of hope.  I gave him a big smile and a thumbs up.  He stood up and began waving his hand around.  The Jedi began picking out kids and completely passed over Loumy.  I felt L's angst growing as the Jedi made another sweep past him.  I suddenly turned into "crazy mom who embarrasses husband and children.".  I began shouting as loud as I could and pointing at Loumy, "RIGHT THERE!  BOY IN THE CAMO SHORTS!  CHOOSE HIM!  BOY IN THE BLUE SHIRT AND CAMO SHORTS!  CHOOSE HIM! RIGHT THERE!  COME ON!  CHOOSE HIM!"   And, finally he was chosen.  We all gave a sigh of relief.  Except for Loumy, who was relieved to be chosen, but very, VERY serious about the events which were about to take place.  

To see his face, you might have thought he was not enjoying this.  But I think it was one of the most memorable experience's of his life.

Training was going fine until some Clone Troopers arrived, followed by Darth Vader AND Darth Maul!  Darth Vader tried to convince the children to join the dark side, but Loumy fought bravely.






































































































































Before long, the dark side had been conquered, "for now", and Loumy was receiving his official certificate for having completed the training.   It was really enjoyable for all of us.

The following day, SC (a closet Star Wars lover) decided that she really wanted in on the action.  We decided to go again.  There was much discussion about whether or not Loumy should raise his hand and if, in doing so, SC's chances of being chosen would be lessened.  Eventually we decided they would stand side-by-side holding hands and then would both raise their hands.  Loumy was chosen immediately.  He glanced, sadly at Grace. We all held out hope that she would be chosen.  But, alas, she was passed over.  This time Loumy was chosen to stand on the stage.  As he looked at me and Grace, it broke my heart. He is the sweetest boy in the world and I know he would have given his spot for her to have it in a second.  He still did well, but you could tell there was a damper in the excitement for him.  Afterwards, the first thing he said to me when he came over was, "I shouldn't have raised my hand!"

Here SC and Loumy wait in excited anticipation.

 Loumy looks on with much worry as SC continues to raise her hand in hope.

Loumy still fought Darth Vader valiantly, but his heart just wasn't in it.

I don't know if another five-year-old exists with as much compassion, empathy, and concern for others as Loumy--nor one with such mad light sabre skills.   I feel so blessed the Lord has entrusted this boy to my care!