Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Challenge

Obstacle Race, Dornoch Highland Gathering 2007. Photo by John Haslam.
I watched a little girl mount the side of a shopping cart and ride, cheering like a rodeo cowgirl. Later, she clambered beneath the basket onto the frame. Eventually she uncurled, emerged, and hopped past the checkout, touching only the grey squares.

Unencumbered by a shopping list, coupons, the plans of the day, she goes. She skips, and skips backwards. She pushes herself, discovering the novel while I act bound to the ordinary.

I want to be a solid grown-up, but to achieve that, do I need to be a better kid? How might I see the day's challenges and revel in them?

4 comments:

  1. This is so true - my daughter skips everywhere she goes. My children are a blessing to me every day and make me want to be a better storyteller. Thanks for sharing and congrats on completing the blogathon!

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  2. Being with my kids brings a lot of joy. I think I understand what you mean about kids making you want to be a better storyteller too. My kids want to hear great stories; they want that sort of engagement; I love to see the sparkle in their eyes when they've been intrigued by a tale. Thanks for stopping by!

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  3. I think embracing our inner kid is important (my girls are 11, 9 & 6 so they force it upon me sometimes and shouldn't have to).

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  4. Tia, I'm right there with you, almost literally! My three kids are almost the exact same ages as yours, and they love it when I play. It's funny, because once I get past my list of things I want to do or should do, I love it too.Thanks for sharing!

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