Yesterday, we took the little monkey to get a Christmas tree. We chose a lot recommended by friends with fresh, local trees. To our surprise, Santa and Mrs. Claus were also in attendance. Santa was a jolly fellow with a real (not fake) white beard, sparkly eyes and a penchant for poetry.
The little guy felt very comfortable with him.
When he climbed up into Santa’s lap and was asked what he wanted for Christmas, he quickly replied with certainty, “A Christmas tree!” Santa bellowed and pointed to the lines of trees to his right, “Go pick one young man!”
Before sending us off to choose our tree, Santa closed his eyes and composed a poem about love and family, inspired by us (or so he said). Mrs. Claus handed out lollipops and hugs to all.
As I watched the little guy running through the trees, I realized that he knew something that I forgot. True happiness comes when you want the thing that is right there in front of you.
He didn’t ask for a space ship or train set. He just wanted a tree to take home and decorate with lights. He knew we were there to get one and even the surety of that fact did not diminish his excitement.
I remembered that lesson today as the little monkey ran circles in the bank (almost knocking over their Christmas tree). I found myself watching another toddler, standing close to her mother and entertaining herself with a scrap of paper. Jealousy tapped my shoulder for just a moment and I wondered why I couldn’t have a mellow kid, an easy kid, one that isn’t so loud and fast.
And then I glanced over into the big, excited blue eyes of the little guy as he raced up to me, begging for stickers (with cars on them) and decided to want him just the way he is.
Inspiring post. So often we don’t know a diamond when we are holding it in our hands.
I loved this post Savannah. It’s a good reminder to love my sweet girl for who she is.