Tonight at bedtime you looked at me sweetly with your perfect face and asked me if I could stay for a minute longer.
Sometimes I’m so tired that I say I can’t because I just want to make it to the couch without answering one more question.
But tonight, you asked. And I stayed.
You finally had me alone, your mama, without little sister wailing or vying for my attention, to be fully present. You took the opportunity to bravely share what’s not kind in your world, what you’re experiencing, and what perplexes you.
While you speak I’m reminded and honored that you trust me enough to share your feelings. And I want you to know that I don’t take that lightly.
I listen deeply and hear you, and what you need to know about me is that I’ll always show up for you. You were born wise and deeply kind, and are completely and so genuinely shocked with people you meet in the world who would not choose to exude kindness at every moment.
How can I tell you that it’s not you who needs to change? How do I explain that people are complex and come with their own uncontrollable baggage?
What I’ve never needed to tell you is to continue to be kind when others aren’t. You just show up that way. Every day.
I can’t change the world around you, but I’m starting to give you the tools to bravely move through it. I want you to know this: You can be kind and stand up for yourself.
No one ever taught me that, but since I’m practicing this myself, will you practice right along with me?
And, I promise I’ll be better at staying “just a minute longer”.