Dooley Noted: 7/27/2015
This weekend, I spent a glorious two days with arguably the most beautiful child on the planet.
Her name is Abigail, and she is my two year-old niece.
My sister had warned me of her smarts and of her energy level.
Having heard those same warnings about myself for the past 36 years, I was not intimidated.
As I reflect today on the beautiful weekend with family, I learned more from Abigail than I could ever teach her.
Here are some of Abigail’s inspiring ways.
1. When you throw a tantrum, you don’t get what you want. Distract yourself. You won’t remember why you were even upset.
2. There is no worrying about the future or the past. There is only now. Enjoy it, and focus on it.
3. Eat small amounts. Then, get moving afterwards.
4. Squat to get things off the floor. Knees follow hips. Never use the low back as a fulcrum.
5. Fear may be present – like a crashing wave or a deep pool. But test your limits – and have a safety net nearby.
6. Even if people don’t understand you yet, talk things out with yourself.
7. When people offer you attention, spend time with them. But know that you’re in charge to do as you please.
8. Don’t accept help if you don’t need it. Say, “No.”
9. Do accept help if you clearly need it. Say, “Yes.”
10. Don’t let people coo over you too much. Get busy entertaining yourself.
Thank you, Abigail, for some serious lessons I need to relearn.
Listen to those children. They will teach you volumes that you’ve forgotten.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley
