In first grade, our teacher at Kindred Public School, Miss Sorlie, gave awards to every child in class. A yellow construction paper ribbon, pinned to the bulletin board at the back of the class, highlighted a positive aspect of each of us.
I didn't really understand mine.
"Most Thoughtful." That was nice, I guess, but I was 6. I didn't really get it.
Sunday night, as I tucked my wiggly worm in, I promised her I would stay upstairs and read in our room. "I have a headache, Honey. I'm going to take some Tylenol and finish my book. I've got a new one to start, too. You just go to sleep," I said, knowing she was keyed up and wouldn't stay in her bed without some serious intervention.
After one more, "I just need another hug from you," she went to sleep.
Monday morning, I woke at 9 AM* to my little girl standing at the side of my bed.
"Mommy?" she said, stroking my hair. "Your head still hurt?" She leaned over and kissed my forehead.
Yeah, now I get it. She deserves a thousand construction paper ribbons.
*(Yes, 9 AM!!!! NINE!!!! And she did it again on Tuesday! I'm liking this.)
3 comments:
aaaahhh... sweet.
I love when young children display their natural compassion for others. When my 22-yr-old nephew was 7 or 8, I was laid up with a broken leg and he was asked to "babysit" me while my mom went food shopping. I started to fall asleep while we were watching a DVD, and next thing I knew, I felt him covering me up with a blanket! So cute! I hope that compassion follows him into his upcoming Army career. He's choosing a hard road ahead.
9am? And then kisses in the morning. Indeed, she's a thoughtful one.
Hug and kiss that little girl for me! I miss her!
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