Sitting through a whole church service can be tough on a seven-year old, but my youngest does his best to pay attention. Yesterday morning, though, was a tough one. He’s been up late several nights in a row, and sitting in the pew and keeping quiet was sorely taxing his ability to stay awake.

Toward the end of the service, there was a contemplative moment with quiet instrumental music.

“Daddy,” he whispered to me desperately, his eyes half-closed, “why are they playing sleepy music?”

“It’s a challenge,” I whispered back. “They’re trying to make you fall asleep.”

His eyes widened in alarm, and then he smiled. “Da-addy!”