Through Elijah's Eyes

Out of my six children Elijah is the first who ALWAYS wants to come with me when I leave.  It can be a bit frustrating because he takes his own sweet time and often I am in a hurry.  Yesterday was a perfect example.  It was rainy and I had a couple quick errands I needed to get done.  It was a simple stop to the post office and pick up a couple things at the grocery store.

I tried to sneak out the door but Elijah caught me.  So we were off to do my errands.  It had been raining all day.  As I pulled into the parking lot of the post office I knew what Elijah's first thought would be when we got out of the van.  It would be to try and jump in any puddle he could find as we entered the post office.  So I told Elijah we would not be jumping in puddles today.  We had to stay dry. 

Elijah did the best he could, but he just couldn't resist the puddle as we got back to the van.  He got in one good splash with both feet.  Frustrated with his damp pants I put him in the van and headed to the store.  In that moment I had a thought that altered my attitude.  For a moment I thought about what the world around was in Elijah's eyes.  How he perceived this moment.  It wasn't a list of errands to do.  It was an adventure to be had.  

There were puddles to be jumped in.  Cars and people to see.  Things to explore everywhere.  So what if we only had two items to pick up at the store.  You should always use the big, cool car shopping cart.  Size didn't matter.  Just make the most of every moment.

I am glad I had that change of heart.  Rather than being frustrated as I tried to maneuver that huge cart,  I was able to take Elijah on a drive around the store.  He loved being able to pretend he was the one driving.  He loved looking at all the different things to discover at the store. I had these few moments to spend with my little boy who loved me and thought the world of me.  I, not him had the privilege of having him with me.  I will have to try and make more of the small moments I get with my children every day.