by Moira Cullings
moira.cullings@theleaven.org
OLATHE — Calvin Kirby is “vigorous at avoiding bedtime,” said his mom Brooke.
But when she came upon the 6-year-old sleeping on the floor at the top of the stairs — next to a crucifix and two rosaries — it was a special moment.
“This instance was more charming, and certainly more peaceful, than some hijinks we’ve witnessed,” she said.
“His rosaries are clearly special to him, as one is from his Mimi (grandma) and the other from kindergarten at Prince of Peace [in Olathe],” continued Brooke.
The day he brought the rosary home from school, she said, “he prayed the entire car ride from leaving our parking spot.
“His second-grade cousin who takes a ride home was gentle in his feedback on rosary etiquette, [saying], ‘Calvin, you don’t need to say the Sign of the Cross after every prayer.’”
Faith is already an important part of life for Calvin, who enjoys serving alongside his dad when he is an usher at Mass and beside his mom when she is a greeter.
The social youngster has accepted the current “stay at home” order during this time of the coronavirus pandemic well.
“We have spent much more time together as a family,” said Brooke. “With my husband now working from home, the kids online for school and social distancing, we’re communicating and interacting more as a family unit.”
Like many families, they have had a chance to slow down and appreciate their time together.
“Rushing to a practice, hurrying home from work for dinner, juggling play groups [and] volunteering are all on hold. Family togetherness is the plus to this otherwise dreadful threat,” said Brooke, and they have had more time to pray together.
“Our faith naturally calms us and also challenges us to interpret new roles we may be called for,” she said.
