LIfe In The Middle

Opening Your Mind To The Joys Of Spring  

At one time May Day was one of those universal times when gifts from nature were given to offer appreciation and a prayer to let the other person have a fruitful year. When I was a little girl, we would spend the morning collecting flowers. The daisies and dandelions were woven into wreaths, necklaces and bracelets. The bunches of flowers and daisy rings would be placed in the basket, with small plates of homemade breads and cookies. As children we would rise early on May Day, and go out into the neighborhood. A quick knock, a gift token left on the step, and then run away quick so no one would know who the Spring Fairy was.

I admit, life is more complicated now. We don’t know our neighbors as well. We would be hesitant to send our child to a door to deliver a gift of Spring, but we can accompany them on a mini adventure.

The disappearance of the May Day Fairy, is sad to see. It would be nice if schools or day cares, or groups of Mothers would let the little ones at least participate in this activity. Dancing around a Maypole is a wonderful activity for children.

 Each year goes through the same rites of passage as it moves into Summer. If we’re smart, we would allow children to discover the wonder of the world around them. They need to chase butterflies, climb trees, watch birds build nests, and somersault down a grassy hill. They will marvel at a new batch of baby chicks and kittens.

When parents participate with their children in these activities of childhood, they have a small time machine which allows them to go back and experience the magical wonder of childhood. It’s a tragedy that many parents are so involved in their own lives, their children receive only second-class time from them. There is a quick bite to eat, a bath before bedtime, a quick kiss on the cheek and I’ll pick you up from day care tomorrow. Children grow up fast. Do not let opportunities to do things with them pass by. Remember the old adage. Use your time well and you’ll have a rich life when you’re older.

Open your mind to the joys of spring. This will benefit you and your children. I hope you enjoy your garden, buy some flowers at the local store, and take your lunch outside to experience the sounds and wonder of life around you. Most of all, I hope you throw open the windows and extend a welcoming smile to those around you. You’ll find the sun a little brighter, the smell of the flowers sweeter, and who knows, maybe the somersaults down a hill with a child will be a reminder there’s still some life in the ol’ boy or girl you use to be. To that enjoyment, Until later... Colleen

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Copyright  2008     Leland Pulley