It's the Beamer's birthday. For the past 12 years I've been trying to learn what my son is trying to teach me. This is what I've figured out so far.
Grocery shopping
1. Approach each day with delight. Greet everyone with a smile and an open heart. With this you will attract kind, generous, good people. As soon as the Beamer wakes up in the morning he's smiling. Like he can't believe his good fortune. Like he expects only good things to be waiting for him. A trip to the grocery store isn't a boring chore. It's an opportunity to check out the goods in other people's carts, try raw potatoes and bananas with their skins on, eye the oh so interesting bottles and jars on the shelves.
The Beamer in the bath
2. Be present in the moment. This way you get the full experience of whatever you're in and you don't miss any good stuff by being preoccupied with other stuff. Like when the Beamer has a bath. I know he is savouring every wonderful second in the tub. The water is lovely and warm. The bath toys are beyond expectation.
You never know when someone's going to pull the plug.
The Beamer, the Daughter, and Scarlett
3. When someone does something mean it might not be because the person is rude or doesn't like me or is angry. It could be that this person just really wants my attention and can't figure out a better way to get it. Scarlett, the Beamer's 8 year old cousin, suggests that this is what's going on when the Beamer pulls her hair.
4. Talk less. Say more. The Beamer doesn't talk. But when his brow gets a little furrow in it we all know that something is causing him consternation: I need you. A sparkle in his eyes: I love you. Hone it down to the essentials. That's all you really need to get by.
The Daughter made a surprise visit home from university for the weekend to celebrate her brother's birthday. We all knew what he was thinking when he wrapped his arms around her head and went cheek to cheek: Ahhh...there you are! I was wondering where you'd been?! All is now right in the world.
Made me get teary-eyed! Very well written :)
ReplyDeleteYou have described the delightful essence of our Beamer. He has taught you well, indeed!!
ReplyDeleteI'm smiling just looking at his smiles! Beautiful post, Lydia. He's a special boy...happiness personified.
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