[/caption]When you know what you don't want, you more easily know what you DO. I guess ultimately, I am wanting to be like my friend and book club leader, Jennifer. Sometimes at book club, there will be tension between different members. I can sense that there is some friction and I start feeling uneasy. I start feeling uncomfortable as if I need to protect the member that isn't being appreciated. Not Jennifer, she maintains her friendly demeanor and just continues to enjoy book club. Even though she too can sense the tension, she just doesn't even go there, she simply allows everyone to be where they are and continues to spread her joy. That is totally how I strive to be, even if someone is not appreciating Ellie, that I would merely continue on my merry way. That I wouldn't end up feeling as if I have to explain or fix the situation in any way shape or form. Because honestly, it is none
[caption id="attachment_2159" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Adorable baby Alex, the most agreeable baby ever."]
[/caption]of my business what anyone thinks of Ellie. And what anyone thinks of Ellie does not bother Ellie in the least. Ellie just goes right on being herself, telling her stories regardless. Like Jennifer, Ellie is so willing and able to allow others around her to be who they are AND where they are without taking any of it personally.
The other piece of it is that when I see others interacting with Ellie in such a kind, connected, patient way it reminds me of how I want to be with her more often. (By the way, Jennifer is most definitely one of the people that treat Ellie with warmth and humor and dignity and patience. It is wonderful to witness her interacting with either one of my children.) It is way too easy to get caught up in daily chores/routines and just sort of ignore what Ellie is saying to me as she tells me the same story for the 50th time that day. From witnessing my mom interact with Ellie I know that there is a way to come at these stories that makes them fresh and new each and every time. All of these amazing people are like a gentle reminder, a post-it note recall, to get myself back on track.
Sweet post.
ReplyDeleteThing is, I find myself wanting to make a comment that might not be appropriate here. I think it is funny, but all of your other readers may not find it amusing. Okay, I tested it on my husband and he thinks it would be inappropriate. Maybe I can tell you via email. Can I?