Benjamin's Guide to Celebrating

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His view of the outside world all shifted within a few months...a new (to me) car that required him sitting in the middle of a bench rather than behind a captain's chair in front of him, him becoming old enough for a forward facing car seat, and an awareness of what we do at certain locations. He has the prime seat in our SUV which allows him to see exactly where we are going and he practices the art of celebrating. 

When we pull up to the gym parking lot, he throws both fists and feet in the air and cheers- he knows the childcare room has a good stash of Thomas trains and the gymnasium has open space for wild running. When we arrive at the library, the same thing happens- he knows they have a train table. At the Dairy Bar parking lot- he knows how wonderful their frozen treats taste. At church- he knows they have good toys too. At his friend’s house, he knows he has loads of fun. 

It happens at home too. He cheers for his favorite shows on TV, when his trains ride  successfully down the hill without derailing, when he tosses or kicks a ball and it lands where he intended, when the toy bounces just right down the steps, when snacks are given, when he is rescued from his bed after nap time...all cheers. Celebration fists tossed in the air, a huge smile and a strong yay!!!

The kid is happy and knows his needs are met. He doesn’t worry about stuff. He has no cause for concern. I wonder if he will always be this way or if this is just a stage- I hope it’s the former. I hope he always remembers how to celebrate. 

My friend and I were chatting recently. She is early in her first pregnancy and her sister just found out she is also expecting. She spoke of watching her sister celebrate this deeply wanted baby, yet feeling a little unsure of wildly celebrating her own. She wishes for the freedom and security to trust the realness of what’s happening. I understand what she is talking about.  Because, after observing Benjamin’s celebratory personality, I wish for the same child-like enjoyment of life. I wish I trusted more and let go of taking care of all the details around me sometimes. And I pray my friend could simply enjoy her pregnancy and celebrate the wonderful baby coming. 


Are you the celebratory type? Or are you the solemn and stoic type? What does it require of you to enjoy a moment? 

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