I wrote my last post just a few minutes before I had to leave for a busy morning. If I had taken a few more minutes to gather myself and some positive mental energy before venting on my blog, I could have heard how much Boo Hoo Hoo sounds like Me Me Me.
My 10yo 5th grade daughter is in her elementary school’s “Company,” a singing and dancing group. We met in the music room this morning, and they were all so excited to perform at the nursing home; their energy was contagious. And the music teacher was sooooo grateful I was there (I was the only parent helper at that point).
At the nursing home, we had between 15-20 residents gathered in the activity room to hear the kids. The residents were clearly giddy as the kids were filing in, and my toddler Eli got LOTS of winks from the nice ladies there.
The kids in the “Company” did an amazing job – they looked great, sounded great, and all of the residents were so pleased with the performance. During one of the songs, looking at everyone’s beaming faces, I felt like such a jerk for whining about having to get up and go this morning. Here were people thoroughly enjoying the simple pleasure of having visitors and entertainment, and the kids reciprocated with their own giggles and smiles. Why on earth would I want to rain on that parade with my selfish grumbling about how “hard” it was going to be on me to go?
Blah.
After a 30-minute performance, the kids (there were about 50 of them) spread out and talked with each and every resident there. They were giving hugs, shaking hands, politely asking, “Did you enjoy the show?” They handled themselves with such poise, and I was impressed.
My life and schedule right now are a little overwhelming, and I know I have a right to feel stressed. But that’s the easy way out. This morning showed me that I really need to slow down and appreciate what OTHERS are doing, and find more joy in my part of making those things happen.
Filed under: Community, Motherhood, Volunteering
Thats very cool! I used to work as an activity aide at a “senior living community”, and I know that the residents genuinely do enjoy it when people, especially kids, come to visit and entertain them! A lot of them don’t have grandchildren, or don’t get to see their grandchildren much, and there is just something really special about seeing kids perform! Tell your daughter, keep up the good work!
It’s *okay* to vent. I just read your last entry, and you sound exactly like a busy mom with a lot on her plate. My husband went out of town last week, he was out of town this week, and he’s going out of town next week, too. It’s difficult. We all understand. Don’t be so hard on yourself for being human.
Hugs
I love posts like these. Where we wake up and realize all that is wonderful — and it makes the getting up early and the extra effort all worth it!
Thanks for sharing