A Hug Never Hurts

I've been told that the fact that I don't have any kids means I know nothing about raising them. Eh. While I agree I don't know what it's like to be a parent - I certainly know what it's like to be a kid. The fact that I can still see (just about) everything through a kid's eyes, but with adult experience, gives me a pretty unique perspective on what kids think, need, want, etc. 

In some ways, I think parents get gypped. They're so focused on teaching their kids, they are rarely able to stop and appreciate all that their kids are teaching them. Since I'm the one without any actual responsibility, I can (and do) pay attention. 

Here are a few of my favorites.

• All cake should be birthday cake! (Nathan, age 3)
• Re: Food spilled on your shirt - I'm saving it for later! (Billy, age 6)
• If you say something mean, you need a time out. (Emily, age 2)
• I like the action, but the kissing parts are boring. (Billy, age 6)
• Re: Dating - It's a jungle out there! (Tiffany, age 5)
• Everything is better with chocolate. (Billy, age 7) [Side note - he learned this from his mom. Genius!!]
• Always say please and thank you. (Nathan, age 4)
• I may be too full for dinner - but never for ice cream. (Billy, age 7) [Mom again.]
• When you're tired, your family will carry you. (Billy, age 6 and Nathan, age 4)
• There's always time for a nap. (Emily, age 2 and Joey, age 5mos) 
• There's also always time to shop. (Tiffany, age 6)

Dude - do you ever listen?

Kids understand that right and wrong are usually pretty clear. They know that please and thank you are the right thing to say, no matter what. They get that life should be enjoyed; that we should stop to look at flowers and shiny things, even when we're in a hurry. They know that they can't always say or do anything to take away sadness or loss - but a hug never hurts. 

Wouldn't it be great if we all remembered those lessons?