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This is a new love. I already knew the love of family. I discovered the love of film and music. I entered into love with my wife. But, this new love is...well...new. I can't define it. I can't understand it. I can't contain it. Its a protective love. Its a pure love. Its an unconditional love. And, this love is so frightening.

I greet this love every morning with a little kiss and a hug. She is sleeping in her little bed surrounded by stuffed animals and a 30-year-old blanket. Her belly is usually sticking out of her PJs, and her hair would put Don King to shame. There is such an innocence to her. She doesn't dream about death, and finances, and losing hope. She dreams about Finding Nemo, our dog Ollie, and playing with her little daycare friends. She doesn't have to be anywhere. She has no bills to pay. She won't face heartbreak today. She won't worry about gas prices. All she cares about is waking up and seeing Mommy and Daddy.

This love is different. I love my wife, and I care for her, but I don't have to feel protective because she is her own person and has her own life. My little creature, however, is all mine. She needs me. She relies on me. If I am not there, she won't be OK.

Sometimes while rocking her to sleep, I just have to stare at her. I am so grateful. I am humbled. I am reminded of how the Lord loves me because in my imperfect and flawed love, I would die for my little girl. But the Lord's love is everlasting and complete. So His love must be something special.