The snow is crunching beneath our feet.
The sun is playing hide and seek with the clouds.
He is jumping between rocks, telling me about his day in the way that only children can. Fast thoughts running together, flowing out of his mind and mouth like a waterfall of words.
He comes upon a big rock, covered in snow. He is hesitant, clearly unsure of whether or not he can make the jump.
I want to say “be careful!” but I bite my tongue and watch.
He bends his legs, preparing to jump.
I hear him begin to say to himself quietly, “I can do this. I CAN do this.”
And he’s airborne. Flying through the air.
I hold my breath, hoping he lands safely.
And he does.
A smile spreads across his face, lighting up the afternoon. He is proud of himself. He did it.
That smile makes every hour of my job worth it.
In six short months he has changed his thoughts from “I am stupid, I am worthless,” to I can do it.
He is facing situations that months ago he would have shied away from.
He is jumping. Even though he is afraid.
And just like that, in this one simple moment, I know my work with him is done.
This is so awesome and comes at a moment in my own life when I am facing convincing my own son that he is not stupid, and yes he can do it!! Thank you. It is amazing how G0d manages to put certain things in a person's path and you read it and you realize..yes, my son and I will get through this just as you have. It will be alright. Your post has fortified me for the parent teacher conference I face this afternoon. Amazing.
It really is simple.
Kathy
http://gigglingtruckerswife.blogspot.com
Unless he is now taking care of you, you are far from done! lol
I have been a mom for 43 years and I am still mothering. I am still teaching and learning. I am still the mom.
I have been a daughter for 62 years and I am still being mothered. I still need her.
It's a lifelong job.
He's adorable!
♥
Oh, I am just the social worker! Ive worked with this kiddo for about 6 months! I don't have kids (yet). 🙂 the picture is from Pintetest! It is a great picture though!
This post is beautiful. And you're amazing – you're making such a difference for so many kids!
Wow. This made me almost cry with joy. What an accomplishment; and you have such a way with writing it out.
This is such a great post. felt so inspiring like I was right there witnessing it. You really are such a gifted writer Jenn.
Great post!
Nice. And that you notice such a simple thing is great.
Beautiful.
The sweetest kind of victory! This was wonderful.