We are attempting to make a peaceful transition into the 4’s. You see, it has not been as easy as I thought it would be. For example, dropping off Tatum at school the past few weeks has been difficult for her. And it shows. LOUDLY.
Actually, there has been an increase in the dramatic show of emotions as of late. Sometimes she expects me to read her mind and when I don’t get it right, she’ll start to cry. It’s a little more pronounced since she’s turned 4 for some reason. I’m learning how to help her navigate through her bevy of emotions as I figure out how to handle them myself!
Tatum (and I know I) have been holding on to pieces of her that are still 1, 2 and 3. I love picking her up and holding her. I love her little cries when she needs mommy. I love her needing me to help her! I’m sure there will always be her 1, 2, and 3’s present as she gets older; it will just look a bit different.
Then there is the 4-year old who wants to be 7. She can do it herself. She can be bossy and demanding. She’s discovering her personhood little by little, and sometimes it can be overly emotional.
This brings me to a timely book: The Little Tree. It is a wonderful reminder to Tatum and especially for me.
The book starts out with all of the little trees being so beautiful and green. Then as fall arrives, they all start to drop their leaves, but not the little tree.
It holds onto its leaves tight and won’t let go. Many come by and ask the little tree why, but it stays still, unwavering. Then spring arrives and the other trees are blossoming new beautiful green leaves and growing, but the little tree’s leaves stay brown.
The cycle continues and the other trees are growing as the little tree remains the same. No change. No growth.
Finally finally finally, it decides to let one go. Then another and another. It steps out on faith and it is bitterly cold and hard!
What happens next?
A beautiful tree is not so little anymore. (and look at the love all around it now!)
A great lesson for me as we allow for her growth and independence to occur. Sure, I want her to remain in my lap and cradled in my arms forever, but that is not going to help her at all. Ultimately, what I do want for her is to grow into the woman God made her to be, and that is the beautiful tree I know she will be. I love you Tatum Knight.