A boy came into Meazi' class in May. He had switched schools. May is a tough month to start a new school. His mom approached me the other day and told me that the only reason her son was able to make the transition was because of Meazi. He had been crying in the classroom. Meazi approached him and asked him what was wrong. He said that no one would play with him. Meazi said, "Well, you can play with me." She took his hand, and from that moment on she has had his back.
Another mom approached me to compliment me on my parenting skills after hearing this story. It has absolutely nothing to do with me. My daughter knows what it is like to be an outsider. She has had to learn about change and about adapting, very early in her life. Her losses have been enormous, and she has better coping skills than many adults I know, myself included.
"Meazi is a kind and loving child and has been a wonderful part of our Kindergarten community."
1st Day of Kindergarten...
Last day of Kindergarten...
Congratulations Konji. I am so proud of you.
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I've worked in schools for a long time and you are so right. You cannot teach sympathy and empathy. However, you can model it! What a wonderful compliment for M!
ReplyDeleteThat is a beautiful story. I have been told this about our daughter as well on two different occasions this year. And I totally get it. Of course they reach out - I see how keenly she is aware of others who feel on the outside. And for some reason, it always breaks my heart.
ReplyDeletesweet sweet girl.
ReplyDeleteWhenever I think about your daughter, I tear because she is the most compassionate person. I know that Aster feels so much safer in this world knowing your daughter is here. I have so much to say, but I know you just know. We are very lucky and grateful to know her (and you).
ReplyDeleteSweet! My little Dew Drop is the same way- I regularly see her on the playground comforting other kids and putting her little hand on the small of their backs (as if she's a grownup and they are kids...funny!). The only part that I play in it is to notice it by saying things like "that was incredibly sweet when you helped that boy on the sliding board. You know, you're good at understanding other people and helping them. I hope you can always keep that about you."
ReplyDeleteShe sounds exceptional, remarkable. I'm sure you've had far more influence than you can know, Julie. You've critically helped her to adjust, you've provided essential stability - all of which compliments and nourishes her enduring beautiful, kind, soaring spirit.
ReplyDeleteI am in awe of her. Ruth & Aster still ask "where's Maaahzi" (or Melahzi). I hope they get to hang around with her again someday. Or at least get to meet someone like her . . . unlikely. There's no one like her.
ReplyDeleteI am moved by Meazi's actions and heart, but not at all surprised.
ReplyDeletethat's my girl too! so empathic. spunky and kind. perfect combo. Love this story. Wish they didn't have to go though so much stinking pain to get to this place.
ReplyDeleteShe is beautiful. Inside and out. You are too Mommy.
ReplyDeleteOh that is a beautiful post and brought tears in my eyes. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteLove that girl! Can you swing by and let her teach my boys some gentleness and kindness? They are so rough. This speaks badly of me, but I think it's true: we parents have a lot to do with it. Give yourself credit, you are a gem.
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