Mama, Smell the Flowers

6-9-16

“Mama, stop and smell this flower.”

My son said this on our walk this morning, his own nose covered in the yellow pollen of the flower.  His turn of words caught my attention, as the old adage says “stop and smell the roses.”  So, of course, I stopped and smelled the flower.  And my own nose became covered in pollen and both kids laughed.   It was a very simple moment, but one that meant something to me and to them. 

My son notices so many things on our walks and I have learned simply to stop and allow him to show me what he sees.  Seeing our town through his eyes has been such a gift to me, now that I’m willing to slow down and do it.  And the most amazing part of it is that he’s reminded me of who I was long ago–a young girl with long, dark hair who loved nothing more than a day outside, taking her own time, running free, and exploring nature.

This was a simple moment from a simple day, but there is beauty in the everyday if we open our eyes to see it.  And, children always seem to show us the way if we let them.

Thanks for Mothering the Divide with me on this summer day.  I hope you take time to stop and smell the flowers, too.