Like Mother, Like Son?
“MS. MICHELLE!!”
“Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded.”
This time, a little louder and accessorizing the heightened volume by cupping his tiny hand around his lips. “MS. MICHEEELLLEEE!!” Still, she does not hear him. As his small frame floats across to her and I trail behind him, I share with her his level of excitement to throw open the door and see her awaiting the children as she always does, week after week. The difference is, it seems, that his level of excitement increases with each week that passes. As the lesson continues he finds his way chasing her, his instructor, across the pool screaming “I’m gonna get you!”
He mingles with other children inquiring “What’s you name?” (He has not, yet, mastered “your.”) He tosses the pool toys to anyone within his own view in spite of whether or not their view aligns with his. He volunteers to be the first to slide down the water slide and to model “elbow, elbow, tummy, knee,” the protocol for safely climbing out of the pool. Originally, I cringed, thinking maybe he is doing too much. I even considered that maybe other parents and the instructor may not like his extroverted personality. The more I consider the why, however, I realize he is the complete opposite of the child version of me and even particular parts of who I am as an adult; docile and compliant.
That is actually the child who I thought I wanted and was prepared to groom. That, in fact, is not the child that I birthed and some discomfort, initially, existed in that. I have long been consumed with others’ perceptions of me. I continue to recognize the detriment in that and in doing so, a love for my son’s opposing disposition is growing. He, innately, shows no concern for what others think of him. He is two with nothing to lose. I’m grateful that my reality is shaping my regard (or lack thereof) for people’s opinions.
I desire for him to continue to confidently be himself without restraint. This is the age where it begins. I’m tasked with nurturing that confidence and ensuring that I steward it so that his light never goes out. It is an honor to watch how a personality as grand as his can develop at such a young age and have the capacity to grow into something extraordinary if I only continue to encourage it. So, whileI possess many qualities that my baby carries on, this is one that I am relieved he does not. He will be better for it.
