Everyday Parenting- Three Year Old Wisdom
Here is how it went this morning. I was in a rush, because I needed to get downtown for an appointment. I was a little short with Clara getting ready- really, it’s like she *knows* when I want her to be hurrying. We were on our way out the door of our building, and here is the dialogue that ensued:
Me: “Clara, come on honey. It’s time to go to school. Do you want to walk or do you want Mommy to carry you?”
Clara: “I want to walk!”
Me: “Then lets go!”
Clara: “Mommy! It’s so beautiful today!! Look at the birds! And the sky!”
Me: “Hmm, yes, very nice, take my hand honey, it’s time to go…”
Clara: “Mommy, you like to walk faster, but I like to walk slowly… let’s walk slowly together because it’s so beautiful.”
Okay, so what jerk can argue with that Buddha wisdom??
I contemplated arguing with it, but fortunately, the wise part of me won out and in deference to my little Guru, we walked slowly to school and enjoyed the beautiful Spring morning. I made it downtown with plenty of time to spare, a feeling of connection with Clara, and a happier heart. May we all be willing to hear the wisdom our children and be blessed by it!


March 12th, 2008 at 9:16 am
My almost-three-year-old niece constantly amazes me with her ability to focus. Granted, it’s not for very long periods of time, but it is a complete and all-consuming focus. She’s my model for a “be here now” mindset!
March 12th, 2008 at 10:32 am
Clara is so wise! and thank you for sharing her wisdom with us!
March 12th, 2008 at 11:34 am
All it took was a moment to listen. You did good. I often fail to do so myself. Children know what is right with the world whereas we adults tend to think we know what is right.
March 12th, 2008 at 3:53 pm
I always knew that Clara was a smart cookie!
March 12th, 2008 at 5:49 pm
yeah kids are full of wisdom
March 12th, 2008 at 5:59 pm
Kids are so wise. That is an awesome story…
March 12th, 2008 at 11:37 pm
Too sweet and cute. That Clara is a smart little lady. I wonder where she learned such things… maybe from her mother?
March 13th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
That’s our smart little gal!
March 13th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
she is so wise. i love the wisdom of children.