scribblechic

Today the weather was sunny and cool, a perfect opportunity to embrace an outdoor adventure. After a leisurely breakfast I corralled my children into the car and we headed for the zoo. I often dread the parenting pitfalls of this animal excursion. My children have been known to wander in opposite directions or beg for overpriced mementos and nutritionally bankrupt snack food.

Upon our arrival at the zoo, parking had spilled over to adjacent fields of unmarked lawn. As we made the long walk to the entrance I realized we had chosen the Children Free day for Our Day. I scanned the overpopulated pathways and paused, poised to flee. I imagined my worst fears, tantrums and roaming, exaggerated by crowded exhibits. Hesitantly I merged our small group into the stream of families meandering along the walkway.

Standing in front of the first exhibit my children huddled with strangers’ children and marveled at each colorful fish on display. Slowly they moved on to a new population of children at the next attraction. It was an afternoon of shared wonder and I was in awe of the positive, peaceful spirit that guided my children through out the day.

At no point did my children part ways, in fact on multiple occasions they reached for the other’s hand to draw them closer to the moment. They helped one another spy the stubborn species tucked out of sight. They held the door for one another and others. They skipped over food and trinkets eager to see all the attractions; each animal gifted a moment of genuine gratitude for their presence.

My worries were replaced with a peaceful sense of satisfaction. For all the fond memories of my children toddling the same paths directionless and unconscious of those around them, this new moment of awareness for others and controlled conduct was rewarding. In the chaos of the crowds, I quietly celebrated my children’s demonstration of maturity alongside their unchecked curiosity. Perhaps my instinct to worry should be traded for a greater sense of trust.