Have you ever noticed kids? I mean, really watched them in action? Those little tykes are like sponges—but cuter and less prone to mildew. Reflecting on it, I’m reminded of when I was trying to teach my cousin to tie her shoes. I spent a good ten minutes demonstrating various methods of bunny-ear origami, only for her to call my attempt a “shoe catastrophe.” Ouch.
Children are ace at picking up on behaviors, much like a tiny mimic waiting for their cue. They imitate everything, like right? Why? Because they’re learning how to navigate this wild wacky world and they see us as their guides. Adorable, isn’t it? Yet ooooh so daunting! Seriously, I have posted about this before. It makes you ponder: Are we offering them Grade A material?
We better hope so. And if we don’t think so we better try harder.
‘Cause let’s be honest—kids watch what we do more than they listen to what we say. Yikes. The pressure. So, why not take a breather and consider this: give them something great to imitate. Maybe that means being kind in a supermarket line instead of muttering under your breath about the slow service and making the woman and the register even more stressed. Perhaps it’s showing resilience and positivity when things go–uhm–pop.
Suddenly, all those crazy antics and failures become teachings, lessons, and examples for life. Remember—don’t fret the small stuff. Inspire and have fun (wobbly bunny-ears and all)!
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Little Imitators
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A Million Ways to Die
Hey, ever had one of those shower thoughts, you know the ones where you go, “Wait a minute… how have I made it this far?” I mean, think about it. Out of millions—and yes there are literally millions—of different ways you could have shuffled off this mortal coil, you’ve dodged every single one of them, and you’re doing it right now. Yup, you read that right! We’re alive, high five!
Life is basically a real-life version of an obstacle course, at least the way I see it. Just crossing the street’s a feat, right? (I swear, the crosswalk lights are in cahoots with oncoming traffic sometimes.) Add to that the everyday hazards: slippery bathroom floors, choking on food (’cause I’ve inhaled my fair share of pretzels), and the mystery of “Do Not Eat” packets in packaging. (Who’s actually tempted by those silica gels?)
Ever had one of those showdowns with a corner—the kind that magically leaps out to stub your toe? Oh, the drama those produce! But look at you, you’re still standing (heroically, I might add amid the pain).
Not to get all existential, but there’s something comforting—and a little hilarious—about it. Like, you’re doing this whole life thing pretty darn well. In fact, you’re on a streak, almost like a champ in a video game.
Next time you triage the groceries (or dodge a rogue pigeon, or is it dodging you), remember this—you’re not just surviving, you’re thriving amid life’s slapstick gauntlet. Keep on weaving through those wild, untamed hazards with grace, humor, and maybe a bit of awe. After all, you’re a living, breathing testament to life’s improbability because there are litterly a million ways to die. Keep on rocking it!