It’s picture time at school and it brings to mind a very cute story. Children go through phases with things that catch their interest, they can even get quite obsessed at times. An example of this was seen in a four year old who totally idolized his older brother and wanted to be just like him. Big brother had a helmet he wore for football and whenever he would leave it lying around, little brother would wear it. When his brother entered high school, he passsed the helmet on to him. Well, this little four year old was thrilled and wore it everywhere! If an adult asked him to remove it, he would have a tantrum. Knowing it was a phase, the school chose to ignore it and the mother was grateful for their patience. The child wore this helmet everyday taking it off only to eat and rest.
When picture day rolled around, his mom tried to reason with the child asking him to take the helmet off for his photo. The child refused. When his turn came, there he was sporting the helmet. After a few shots, the photographer asked the child if his brother had his picture taken with his helmet on too. The child paused and said “Oh no! He took it off and held it in his arm like this.” Taking off the helmet, he held it under his arm. The photographer quickly snapped the picture. Many years have gone by now, but that picture in particular is still a family favorite. Not only did it show the little boy’s true character, but how much he loved and idolized his brother!
It’s a reminder to us all, that we need to be more open and patient and show more appreciation for the unique qualities in each of us.
- Jackie and Jo-Jo
