It is consensus that our kids learn a lot from us. They learn our good habits (good hand washing practice during flu season) and our bad habits (leaving dirty socks everywhere) (hangs head in shame).
We are supposed to encourage them and set a good example.
This is all true, but I love those moments where I learn a valuable lesson that from one of these young, yet wise little people.
Case in point -
Marie had Martin Luther King, Jr. Day off from school. From the moment she woke up, she was glued to the Today’s Show coverage of the inauguration. Glued. She took in every weather factoid that Al Roker shared about previous inaugurations. She reveled in seeing former President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter. This presidential history enthusiast was in. her. glory.
Marie was bummed out when we had to take Thomas to gymnastics because she was going to miss the actual swearing in of President Obama. Luckily, the inauguration was being broadcasted in the gymnastics lobby.
In a room filled with adults barely watching their own kids, only one person cared enough to watch President Obama taking his oath.
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| I was able to snap a quick photo before she insisted that I sit next to her to witness this historical event. |
Later on that night while we snuggled, we had a debriefing of the day’s events.
Me: “Hey,I was proud of you for taking interest in the inauguration.
Marie: “Why do you say that?”
Me: “I just think it’s cool that you were into it.”
Marie: “Mom, I live in the United States of America. Why wouldn’t I watch it. Doesn’t everyone?”
Me: *stunned* “Well, sometimes adults get lost in their own lives and forget to care about their government.”
Seriously, Marie totally inspired me to more passionate about government and politics. I am one of those adults that has been sucked into my life, often turning to junk pop culture to numb my mind after a long day.
When I saw government and politics through the innocent, un-jaded eyes of a six year old, I am inspired to want to care more.
Sometimes I think about my parents during the 1960’s and 1970’s. It seems that they were totally aware and engaged with the political scene. In my mind, I envision groups of like-minded people working together to fight for their beliefs. And I’m a tad bit envious.
I am not sure what my next step should be, but I’m definitely going to take time to educate myself with what is going on so I can guide her.
So maybe she can go forth and feel hopeful that real change can happen.
Has your child said something that has inspired you to be a better person?
2 comments:
I think that's awesome. I know from my days of being politically active, they let kids make phone calls as long as they're assisted by parents. You do have to be aware that someone they call could say something mean. It doesn't usually happen, and most people will watch their words when a child calls, but it's something to think about.
I totally agree with her...Why wouldn't more people take an interest in politics? I'll admit to not always knowing everything, but it drives me crazy when people say they don't care. Don't care about our country and its direction?!? That attitude will get us in trouble in the future unless there is more Marie's out there!
I'm so impressed with her maturity. She is such a gem, Erin! Be SO proud :)
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