Effortless

I like observing what my sons do and how they think. I love the grateful hugs I get when I allow my boys to stay out later and do their homework right before bed instead of immediately after school. I like how my youngest thinks ice cream fixes everything. I like watching my oldest on trying to figure out things that pique his curiosity. I like eavesdropping on their pretend play.

That gentle innocence that is childhood is comforting. It always makes me smile softly with bittersweetness. I love being so much apart of their everyday lives, being there to drink in their new discoveries, to consume the joy they have when they achieve so many firsts. It’s the best sort of medicine anyone could ever have, the best sort of cure for heartache.

Depressed or upset? Go to the park and observe little kids that are yet to be jaded by material possessions. Watch little girls share without jealousy, or compliment each other without sacrificing their own self-esteem. See how little boys still treat little girls with equality instead of succumbing to gender prejudices.

It’s sobering, and we could all use a little sober thoughtfulness from time to time. The gentle way we interact as children becomes ugly and bitter overtime. I’m so grateful I can remember the softness and innocence through my children. I’m so grateful I have been given these two blessings to remind me humanity isn’t 100% evil or corrupt. There are good things left in the world.

Children are all that is good in this world, precious commodities that get too little recognition of their awesome power to bring smiles and love to people without effort.
Effortless love, unending, free. That’s how we should be with each other daily, be childlike in our love and friendship.