My preschooler is quite inquisitive and curious about the world. She asks why people are mean, or why she can’t have a third cupcake and really wants to know the truth. It’s a challenge for me to be honest, yet age-appropriate sometimes. But when she asked me about Valentine’s Day, I told her simply, “It’s a day to tell people you love them.” Oh, the wisdom sequestered in her brain…she replied, “But I do that every day!” My response? I commenced to ask her what she thought about love:
Me: What is love?
Pie: It’s when you really, really, really, really love someone.
Me: But what does love mean?
Pie: It means you love them really a lot.
Me: (Trying a different approach) Who invented love?
Pie: You…and me!
Me: How did we do that?
Pie: You loved me when I came out of your tummy.
Me: When did you love me?
Pie: All the time.
Me: Why do we love people?
Pie: ‘Cause they are nice.
Me: Do we love mean people?
Pie: No, but Jesus does.
Me: Who do you love?
Pie: Lots of people?
Me: Like who?
Pie: Weeellll, you… and Mini (the dog). And Mimi and Poppy. And Papa. And Aunt Susie and Pickle Juice, Aunt Stephie and Uncle JimPa….and Parker!
Me: Anybody else?
Pie: Miss Krista and Miss Wendy. And Autumn.
Me: Is that it?
Pie: For now…I might love other people some day. That OK Mama?
Me: Yes, that’s OK.
Pie: Can I go outside and play?
So, the message is clear…love the nice people and let Jesus sort out the rest.
Some things don't need to be explained; they just ARE. Beautiful post.
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