“Pride and joy” seems to be such a trite phrase.  And yet I felt the full force of its meaning at my little girl’s first Christmas pageant today.  I was so proud of her standing front and center singing and making all the little signs and gestures to her three songs.  It was indescribable and I was overcome with joy as I saw her looking around the church for me.  The stained glass lit with the radiance of her smile when she found me and my heart swelled.  Former United States Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings said, “Don’t let anyone else take the measure of your worth and capabilities.  Always stand proud in who you are.”  This is what my parents taught me.  And I am still trying to follow those words.  I want the same for my daughter.  She really is my pride and joy.