Lessons from a 20 Month Old

Lessons from a 20 Month old~ Noe on Mother’s Day

I learned there is nothing more important
than chasing a butterfly
before it disappears into the sky.

I learned a cosmos flower
deserves to be smelled slowly,
with your whole face buried in wonder.

I learned tasting something for the first time
is a grand event —
a blueberry, a raindrop, a grain of salt on the lip.

I learned crying is not the end of the world.
You cry hard,
then moments later
you notice a bird fluttering
and life begins again.

I learned smiling matters.
Smile and smile and smile again.
The world softens when you do.

I learned to say hello
to kind-looking strangers,
because sometimes connection
is as simple as eye contact and a wave.

I learned puddles are not obstacles.
They are invitations.
Rain is not bad weather —
it is a chance to splash.

I learned books are as magical as toys.
Pages can be touched, flipped, carried, chewed on, loved.
Stories become music
when someone reads with silly voices and gentle tones.

I learned naps are sacred.
The world can wait.
Rest is not laziness.

I learned people light up
when you try to communicate —
a point, a laugh, a made-up word,
a hand reaching for theirs.

I learned that favorite clothes
do not need explanations.
They are my go-to for my best day! And life is full of best days!

I learned pets are pure fascination.
A dog walking by
can stop all thought and conversation.

I learned having fun
is not extra.
It is essential.

I learned dancing can happen anywhere —
in kitchens, stores, parking lots.
Music is not something to analyze.
It is something to move to.

I learned the moon deserves to be pointed at
every single night
as if it were brand new.

I learned sticks, rocks, leaves, and cardboard boxes
still hold more magic
than many "expensive" things.

I learned to celebrate all victories:
one more step,
one new word,
one brave try.

I learned love is shown constantly —
through lifted arms,
sticky kisses,
leaning against your shoulder
without a single word.

And maybe most importantly,
I learned life was never meant
to be rushed through.

It was meant to be noticed.
Touched.
Laughed through.
Splashed in.
Held gently with both hands
like a small flower someone excitedly brings you
from the yard.