It is interesting to observe the magical ages of two and three. The person, small distinct, and wonderfully original, emerges. There are different milestones that help older ones recognize the shift. For some, it is the moment the young individual uses more words than “no”. It could be “ok” or “yes” or a “maybe”. You realize that you are dealing with an individual who is thinking, reflecting, and deciding. Freedom is on the loose! Another milestone of that time is the ability to catch a ball. For dads, myself included, this was a big deal! I recognized the athlete within; anything was possible!
I have come to appreciate that the person I see at two has an equal standing with myself, even though I have decades of experience on my side. It would be easy to suggest that my learning and journey puts me on a superior level, however some of my mistakes reflect that of a two-year old! Who is to say that I am really that different, especially in a moment?
As the comparison challenges me, I realize there is something that a two year old has that I am trying to rediscover. S/he knows the reality of David’s observation; “I’m happy from the inside out, and from the outside in, I’m firmly formed.” (Psalm 16.9) With certainty, they know they have family. They have a grasp on life. They feel like they have it all and there is still more! Life is a playground, just for them.
I wish I had held onto the sense of wonder, confidence, and hope that two-year-old kids remind me of. It is a magical viewpoint that I know is still true if I let go of my fears, doubts, and uncertainties. In my doubts, I try to do it on my own. In my fear, I make sure I get what I need before others. In my uncertainties, I put others down, trying to make sure I am on top.
A two-year-old reminded me of the Hope living within. Hope and living work well together.
