What's on my mind today

LQ attends a dance class every Wednesday afternoon. On a good day there are about three children that attend. LQ and G are the two regulars while others come and go. G's mother just gave birth to a little boy.

I was very excited to learn all about the little cutie and how G was coping with having a new brother a few weeks ago. Grandma came with little G, so I asked excitedly "how is the new addition?!"

Not so excitedly, G's Grandma told me that the doctors found fluid on the brain after the birth, so they did a CAT scan which showed a brain tumor in the tiny boy. Upon learning of the brain tumor, the paediatrician order another series of test. Ultimately the tiny little baby boy was diagnosed with advanced cancer. Because he is so tiny, there is nothing that can be done.

I was shocked to hear the news. My thoughts immediately went to this family who must have felt such bittersweet feelings. I sent my love along with G's grandma not knowing what else I could do.

Today, G showed up with her mum. We talked about how G was coping with being a big sister. Then we talked about how G's baby brother was doing. G's mum said that he is functioning as any normal baby would. Waking them up during the night, demanding everyone's time and attention. But unlike any normal baby, his parents know that all this blissful time with him is short and precious. G's mum said with a smile on her face "You know, he was obviously meant to be born. So we are just appreciating the time that we do have with him."

What an amazing show of heroism. This woman, instead of looking at her son and seeing what eventually will be lost, is looking for all the good times to be had with her tiny son. What strength, what courage. What a splendid show of perfect mothering.

I thought about all this on the drive home from dancing. I realised that instead of looking at all the things that LQ is NOT doing, I need to be looking at all that she IS doing. Every day she learns more words. And although she doesn't follow most instructions at dancing, she is still able to dance at home. She shrugs her shoulders to a beat. She tip-toed with me this morning. She gives me more cuddles. She is a big helper... putting away dishes and rearranging clothing. She even ate some broccoli tonight!

I am so lucky to be a mum to a healthy, wonderful little girl who wants nothing more than to learn and grow. I'm just thinking that I should be enjoying the play dough more.