Sweet Truth

You know when someone says something sweet that catches you off-guard?

I have the greatest pleasure to work for an A&M affiliated program that allows me to work with over 50 elementary aged students as their "Aggie teacher" after school.

One little girl decided to join our spelling group today as we practiced reading sight words who was not in our usually clan. They were all sitting too close to me, some even on top of my folded feet or leaning against my trapped arms. I constantly tell them to back up a little so I can be mobile again but that is not a popular idea there when I am outnumbered rarely less than 1:10. So, without using arms I attempt to direct these huge personalities in tiny bodies to do something productive instead of argue over who gets to sit next to me, etc.

In the midst of this chaos, the newest girl with her sweet braided pigtails, purple rimmed glasses, crooked smile, kindergarten-tied-scarf, childlike giggle, peeks up at me and whispers, "I really like you. You have a kind heart."

For a moment I think the entire world stopped--not only because I was impressed by her choice of words for the mere age of 5, but also because that could have been the single, most thoughtful thing anyone has said to me, ever.

 After lots of sad goodbye's, pleas for me to stay later, and numerous (& welcomed!) hugs, I departed for the day. On the drive home the comment kept replaying in my head. I have always admired the filter-less character of children. They say absolutely anything that they think, whether it is gentle or not. They say it to each other, they say it to strangers, they say it to close friends, and they say it to me.

Just a few weeks ago for drug-free red ribbon week it was pajama day, I jokingly pulled my hair out of it's carelessly tied up bun, waved it around and laughingly asked a few kids if I looked like Sleeping Beauty, to which they shouted, "NO!"....again, no filter.

But now, this.

I end today thankful for truth and urge us, as a society, as people who like to hear positive things--simply, speak truth.

Speak sweet truths aloud. They could make a bigger, more lasting impact than you imagine.