Many moments in our lives have the power to be a teaching moment. All of us are provided with these moments throughout the day. It’s our job to be present enough so that we’re aware - this is the way to receive these gifts. It all depends on our perspective and how we perceive those moments.
I was reminded of this once again on the weekend as I was doing yard work. I noticed all the dandelions that had to be pulled and was thinking to myself what a pain in the ass they are. A little girl and her family came walking by. She was probably around 4 years old. I smiled at her and said “hi!” She looked over, bent down, picked a dandelion, and brought it over to me. I was overwhelmed with the sweet kindness of this little girl, but also, what I saw as so much work, she perceived as an opportunity to show kindness to another human. I was reminded once again that it doesn’t matter what type of gift a child gives you, what matters is that they chose to give it to you! This little girl who was a complete stranger served as a reminder that the way you look at things matter!
I believe children are our greatest teachers! Especially in teaching us a different way of seeing things. We see an empty box; they see a toy that they play with for hours. When we’re having a bad day and have no patience, our child recognizes this and will crawl into our lap for a hug. But, when our child is having a rough day, we see them as misbehaving instead of admiring the way they dive straight into their emotions. They see us as being human, and with that comes strong emotions. They teach us compassion, empathy, and acceptance. They don’t label us or judge our bad days; they recognize that we all have feelings. The most important thing they teach us, is about ourselves.
We need to see our children for who they are; their strengths, fears, and vulnerabilities. We must enter the present moment to connect. This way we’re not projecting our own unresolved issues onto them. This gives us the ability to recognize their spirit and see what they need and want. They’re not an extension of who we are, they’re not destined to live out our dreams - they’re separate from us.
Not only is it important for us to change the way we look at things externally, but also the way we look at ourselves. Instead of seeing all the things we might not have got done the past week, what about all the things we did accomplish? Instead of focusing on the homework or chores your child didn’t get through, how about recognizing their efforts for what they did or tried to complete.
These are just baby steps we can take in the process of changing our perspective. Take some moments throughout the day to watch your children. See the way they perceive the world! It is a magical place through their eyes! They’re wonderful teachers and once you begin to alter your view, you’ll be amazed at the change in your energy, patience, and joy!
Until next time…switch lens!!