When you first arrived, I felt a surge of frustration. You carelessly dropped your bikes right on the sidewalk and dashed towards the playground. Here I was, just wanting to enjoy some playtime at the park with my 2-year-old and 4-year-old, only to find you and your friends tearing through the space designed for little ones. You’re clearly older, and your boisterous energy is leaving my children wide-eyed and bewildered.
I could see you bounding up the play structure, taking the steps three at a time and barely able to balance on the platform. I didn’t see any adults around, which annoyed me even more; it felt like you were wreaking havoc on my young children’s park experience. You nearly barreled into my toddler as you sprinted across the bridge, and my 4-year-old was watching you precariously stand on the safety railing. It was a recipe for disaster, and I couldn’t help but feel stressed.
I didn’t confront you, though. I prefer not to parent other people’s children, and soon it was time for us to leave anyway. My kids reluctantly climbed into the stroller, and I started mentally preparing to share my grievances with friends about your behavior.
But then I paused. What exactly was my issue? Yes, you’re too old for this park, and your actions weren’t the safest. You could exercise a bit more caution for both your well-being and that of others. But as I continued my internal rant, it abruptly fizzled out. I could see my friend’s blank expression, waiting for the punchline where I’d expose just how terrible your presence was. But there was nothing.
The truth is, you’re not bad kids at all. The school day just ended, and you came to the park to enjoy the beautiful weather. You’re playing Cops and Robbers, not hanging out behind a mall doing something harmful, and certainly not stuck at home in front of a screen for hours. You’re using your imaginations, working as a team, and engaging in physical activity. Your conversations are innocent and free from any inappropriate language. What could I possibly complain about?
Thank you for being at the park today. You’ve taught me a valuable lesson: not everything is black and white. Yes, you might be a bit too old for the play structure, but the broader picture reveals so much more. You remind me that there are still good kids out there, showing that childhood can be wholesome and filled with adventure.
You give me hope that my children will also experience a carefree childhood free from the pressures of adulthood, filled with innocent games and laughter. I hope they grow up like you, with their hearts full of joy and their imaginations limitless. As you continue to race through the park, I hope the parents with younger kids can find joy in witnessing your spirited game of superheroes.