Deep Thoughts

Lately, I've been thinking about the circle of life. The death of my sister-in-law's grandmother brought back memories of my own recent losses the past two years. I've lost close to 10 people. Some I had known my whole life, I met others in college and there was one little angel I didn't get the chance to meet at all. This thought process might sound morbid, but it left me with feelings of gratitude for my association with all these people and comfort in my knowledge of spiritual things. But I'm not the only deep-thinker in my house. Apparently, I've passed the gift to at least one of my progeny. Here's a peek at a conversation I had with my almost-three-year-old. This little exchange happened with Olivia Saturday night as I was singing her "the Cinderella song" while tucking her into bed. I didn't change any of her words, she's a pretty good little communicator.

Olivia: Mama, I need to get married.

Me: You do? Okay.

Olivia: But first I have to go to school. And tie my shoes all by myself.

Me: Yes, you do. That would be good to do first.

Olivia (very panicked now): But Mama! I can't tie my shoes all by myself! I can't do it! I can't!

Me: Oh, that's okay, baby. Mama can teach you. I'll teach you how to tie your shoes all by yourself.

Olivia (very relieved): Okay. I need to get married. I need to go to school and tie my shoes all by myself.

Me: Yes, you do. But let's go to bed first.

Olivia: Okay, Mama. Cinderella song again?

I love this because it so illustrates the mind of a toddler. Who else would place shoelaces, and marriage on the same plane of importance? I hope that my saying, "It's okay, baby," in combination with the Cinderella song will still be the remedy in the future as she battles the angst that so tightly surrounds these landmark events.