The innnocence of Childhood
On Sunday afternoon, something eye opening happened. I was playing hide and seek from my god son so I could get to buy him ice cream. I ran outside then downstairs & I hid around the corner. Staring at me from a distance was a little boy playing with his football. He was also staring at the direction my god son would come. I said ‘shh’ and mouthed to him if anyone was coming.
When he said no, I double checked to make sure then went to buy the ice cream. As I walked by him, I asked if he was okay (he was gazing into the wind) and if the ball was his. He answered ‘yes sir’ and I walked way. A couple moments later, I turn around and he’s kicking his ball, following me. I thought we were probably going in the same direction so I ignored it. When I got to the house that sold the ice cream, I realized that he was still a short distance from me, with a 2 foot-something frame smiling at this towering stranger.
I ordered the ice cream and he asked if I can buy one for him as well. I apologized and explained I only had money for one, and with childlike persistence, he insisted. While waiting for the ice cream, we struck up a conversation. I asked him how old he was, he stopped, showed me five fingers and continued. Then I asked him how long he’d been playing. He replied in some mumble about last year and getting the ball yesterday as a Christmas gift. ( I could tell because it was looking new & hadn’t been pumped fully)
He asked me if I want to see a trick, so I agree. He readied himself, then kicked the ball so far that I was impressed enough to have a kick off-man vs. Boy who can kick the furthest.
When I got the ice cream I told him he could have some. He was considerate, giving no more than 5 licks and handed it back even when I told him he could have more. As I turned to leave, I asked him his name and he said Kevaun, (then reverts to what he was taught to say & gave his full name, middle included) I told him mine was Sean. Then, as he did when I had started walking to buy the ice cream, he followed me to the spot where we met. As I walked back to my apartment he watched as I went up the stairs then waved ‘later’ as if we were friends for a long time.
What struck me was how innocent and pure his intentions were. He didn’t know me, he didn’t care. He just made a new friend and that’s all that mattered. And all he wanted was to hang out with his new friend.
Its amazing what we can learn from children. Spend time with a child today, its a refreshing break from the World around us.
Til next time Sean A.
