Lessons from a kindergarten class:
Last week I was in the art room at my daughter’s school to lend a hand to a group of kindergarteners working on a clay project. When I first walked in one of the students scowled at me. I’m guessing that’s because he didn’t know who I was — I’m not quite sure. A few moments after instructions for the lesson were finished and the art teacher explained that I was there to assist the class, this kid was the first to come over and say, “I’m going to need your help with my clay.” There were lots of little hands and lots of clay that needed rolling, so after he was set for his next step it was time to move along quickly. The class time flew by and they were lining up just as the last child finished the first step of their project. I went around picking up dried bits of clay while the art teacher organized their line up and dismissal. The boy from the beginning said, “I’m going to miss you.” and I replied, “That’s very kind of you to say. I’ll miss you too but maybe see you again next time.” Five and six year old children are notorious for catching on to what draws a compliment and wanting to receive the same, so the girl next to him said, “I love you.” The child next to her said, “Me too! I love you!” It set off a wave of I love you from the entire line of children. They were saying It to each other, to the art teacher, and maybe to the air. It was absolutely adorable. I don’t know if you’ve ever been in a room full of I love you, but it’s a sweet reminder about letting go of conditions or reasons to love.
Love to love and say it just because.
Presence and Positivity 