I became an uncle today!

Something I've always found difficult - maybe it's a cultural thing - is the practice by certain people (mainly Afrikaans-speakers) who address anyone who is a few years older them as "Oom" (or "Uncle" in English). I understand that it is a sign of respect, but being English, I was brought up to address only those who are ACTUALLY my uncle as "Uncle". If you want to show respect to other people, call them Mr, Mrs, Ma'am, Sir.

Me - I prefer being addressed by my first name. I HATE "Oom" or "Uncle" - it makes me feel ancient. "Reverend" is one I'm still getting used to, but since this technically is my title, I can live with that. But for the most part, "Steven" works best.

But this morning I heard the news that my sister-in-law gave birth to a baby girl. The old cellphone signal was not too good when my wife 'phoned me with the news, so I didn't quite catch the name, but I would be ecstatic to be called "Uncle" by this young lady who has just entered the world.

May the Lord bless Shaun and Vanessa richly - children are indeed a gift from God.