[224 words]
When I look at a cluster of dandelions, I see a bunch of weeds that are going to take over my yard. Children see flowers for the elderly neighbor lady or little white balloons that float in the wind as you blow on them.
When I feel wind on my face, I brace myself against it. I think of the cold winter to come. Children close their eyes, spread their arms and fly with it, until they fall to the ground laughing.
When I pray, I’m serious, I use formal words. I ask for healing, assistance, or forgiveness. Children in Sunday School say, “Hi God! Thanks for my toys and my friends and good things to eat.”
When I see a mud puddle, I step around it. I see muddy shoes and floors that need to be mopped. Children sit in it. They see mud-houses to build, rivers to cross and worms to play with.
When I look at a homeless fellow and he smiles at me, I see a smelly, dirty person who probably wants money and I look away. Children see someone smiling at them and they smile back.
I wonder if we are given kids to teach…or to learn from.
No wonder God loves the little children, and Jesus says “unless you’re like this little child…” (Luke 18:17).
Larry Fitzgerald
Woodlawn church of Christ
Abilene, TX