To the living room wall.
And scribbled. A lot.
I heard him laughing so I came in to see,
And saw his “artwork” as he clapped with glee.
I hurried over to him, ready to scold,
Then I remembered – he’s 15 months old.
I asked myself, how should I react?
I should take a second look before I act,
And see all this from his point of view,
And let that guide me as to what to do.
I looked at his face; he looked so elated,
He had taken a step forward – he had created!
He did something that for him was truly brand new,
He went and made “squiggles” – like the “big people” do!
He did what he did just to show
His ema and himself – that he’s trying to grow.
That he can take the initiative and do for himself.
So he stood on his tippy toes and reached for the shelf.
Ema was busy so he looked for some “paper,”
Determined to complete his “big boy” caper,
Spying the blank wall he came up with a solution,
A brilliant breakthrough in his “independence” revolution.
He had a thought that he put into action,
Too young to understand my potential reaction.
So instead of a scolding, I gave him praise.
Thankful for this neshama I was given to raise.
My wall needed repainting, but I am full of joy,
For I realized Hashem gifted me with a healthy, growing boy,
I know in the future many other things will get messed,
But I’ll forgo the anger – for I know I am blessed.
One day soon he’ll understand,
And he won’t do it anymore,
So why yell and make his neshama sore,
When a hug will make his neshama soar?
