Nate's World

In my readings, I’ve been studying the Gospel of Mark and have been fascinated by it for sure. One thing that stands out is how several times Jesus commands us to be like little children. I’ve been thinking about that lately as I have front row seats to a child in my home, and here’s some things I’ve observed that may be wise to implement into my life. Watching Nate grow and discover the world, I can see why Jesus said we should have the heart of a child, here’s some of my observations: Lessons from Nate’s world:

Now is the best time to go to the park, on the way its best to linger and look at ALL the flowers and say hi to all the animals that you pass by. Drumming is fun, if you can run fast—do it, its way cooler that way. Have you pushed buttons when you can, you should because you never know what lights will go on or what horns will beep. Sleep often. Laughing is contagious. Everyone needs to be tickled and tackled at least 3 times a day. Its good to cry when you’re sad, when you have an ouch, when you’re mad and sometimes when you don’t know what else to do. When in doubt always copy mom and dad. There are many things in this world worth running away from and holding your Father’s hand as you walk through scary places. Animals are so amazing—have you looked at one lately? Everyday you should try to make the sound of an animal, car or plane—or all 3 at once! Playdo should be played with regularly. Hugs and kisses are great and necessary for every day. Its better to play outside than inside, but sometimes its more fun to cuddle on the couch with someone you love. It’s good to assert yourself once in a while, otherwise you’ll never get what you want and no one will know how to please you. All balls are fun, they should be thrown, kicked or bounced frequently. Everybody should get a balloon once a day. And if you have the chance, enjoy ice cream and cookies when you can. Fruit tastes soooo good. Friends are easy to make if you don’t care what they wear or what they look like. It’s really good not to take yourself too seriously; it’s better to eat with your hands (how else will you squish all the seeds out of a tomato?). A kiss makes an ouch bearable. Churches should have more toys; celebrating for no reason it great—clapping hands and shouting loud when you’re happy is a must. Reward yourself frequently after big or small successes—especially when potty training (not for adults, I hope), enjoy music, drive with the windows down, jump off the stairs, giggle often, say sorry when you should, and show love to others and you will receive it back ten-fold.

There is wisdom in the life of a child. Perhaps in the next self help book there should be a chapter recommending a day spent with a toddler discovering the world.

Ken—giggle.