Monday, September 15, 2008

Kids Understanding the World

It is amazing to see the world through my children's eyes. At times they have such complex questions and such astute observations.  

As a grown up, it can be hard enough to make sense of the world sometimes... hearing my kids fresh viewpoints and their innocent ideas is so bittersweet, but gives me hope for the future.  

The other day, my husband had forgotten something he needed for work. I picked up my kindergartner from the bus and we headed for my husband's work to drop it by. On the way, we passed a weathered looking man selling newspapers. I rolled down my window and gave him a dollar for a newspaper. 

My son was interested in the exchange.

"Mom, does that man have a home?"

"I'm not sure, but I think he camps in the trees."

"How does he get clean?"

"Well, he probably doesn't get to take a shower as often as we do."

"Oh, I know he has to get clean outside when it rains."

"Does he have any money?"

"He gets a little money from selling newspapers."

"Oh, I know when money is blowing around he can run and catch it and then he will have more money."

"Well, I don't think money blows around too much."

(My son has been studying Johnny Appleseed in class.)  

"I know, next time we drive by we can give him some of our apples and then he can plant the seeds and grow some apple trees and he will have more food."

"Mom, will we ever see that man again? Can we buy another newspaper from him the next time..."

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

It's too bad everyone doesn't have Story Telling Boy's
compassion and desire to help others in need. Perhaps we should all take a lesson from him.

Unknown said...

I love to see compassion in young children. And I think it reflects really well on their parents. I recently watched the paralympics with my 5-year-old and he was beyond amazed at the swimmers who were "faster than fish" even with limbs missing. He kept telling me what "amazing" people they were and that their parents must be prouder than anyone elses! I could have hugged him right up

Joyce said...

Sounds like your son may help with these humanitarian works when he is older. What a blessing. <3

D... said...

Sounds like you are raising a very compassionate child. :)

Thank you for the visit! My toe is starting to feel better now.

Momisodes said...

That is such a sweet story. What a treasure your little man is :)

Cathy said...

That's so sweet. You should feel proud your son said that.

tiarastantrums said...

yep - love my kids intreptations as well!!

Genny said...

That is so sweet. What a great son you have.

Elle said...

I like this post - great thoughts