Stories of Kindness from Around the World

I had a busy "to do" list today and was about to get started when my sister called. 

I talked with her for a short time and could hear my seven year old niece in the background, full of energy as always, and getting told off for something. I asked to speak with her, both because I love talking to her and because I was hoping I could help divert some of her energy in a more positive direction and give my sister a break. 

I listened and talked with her on the phone, giving her as much time as she needed to share her thoughts and express herself. 

The conversation went on for quite a while as I was updated on all the latest, important happenings in her life. In exchange for my time she gifted me with her adorable stories and sense of humor. She says the cutest things that always surprise me and cause me to laugh out loud! 

As our conversation began, she was a bit out of breath as she had been busy pretending she to be an octopus jumping around on an "obstacle course" of pillows. After that she told me about her friend's birthday party, which included a dalmatian cake, chocolate ice cream, and sand art! Then there was the most recent fort she'd built, with layers and layers of blankets to make it extra dark! Then there were stories about her new little brother (who has learned how to make some funny new faces,) cute animals she's seen recently (3 dogs and 1 cat,) and, of course, the weather! 

Forty minutes later she finished, saying, "Well, I should probably let you get going." 

At one point in the conversation my mind had drifted back to my "to do" list, but then I consciously turned it back to her. I chose to be present with her and give her my full attention so that she felt important and special. Because she is. Children are so precious and grow so fast! And we can learn so much from them and the way they see the world. When choosing between my niece and my to do list, I decided that chores and errands can wait - every time!