Kids can be so confusing!
mental models
Apr 29, 2024
I hope this message finds you well. Today, I wanted to share a simple yet profound lesson that unfolded right in my kitchen.
It involves a young girl and her choice of cup—a blue one over another adorned with Elsa from Frozen. While it may seem like a minor detail, it's a significant one for her. Both cups fulfill the same function, yet she is adamant about her preference.
This scenario might perplex some. Why does it matter? It's just a cup, after all. But for her, it's not just about the vessel—it's about consistency and comfort in her daily life. The wrong cup can unsettle her, a reminder that even the smallest choices can have a big impact on someone's day.
As adults, we might overlook such nuances. We see two cups; she sees a choice that defines her day. We see water; she sees a cherished part of her routine. We see an ordinary object; she sees an extension of her identity.
When we mistakenly hand her the Elsa cup, her reaction is more than a fleeting tantrum. It's a sign of her trust being shaken, her plans disrupted. It's an opportunity for us to recognize that what seems insignificant to us can hold great importance to others.
We shouldn't dismiss her concerns as trivial. They're a chance to teach and to learn. In her world, the blue cup stands for more than just a drink—it's a symbol of her growing independence.
This little story is a metaphor for life itself. We all have our preferences and routines that give us a sense of control and identity. Recognizing and respecting these in others, no matter how small, is a form of empathy and understanding.
So let's take a moment to consider the 'blue cups' in our own lives and in the lives of those around us. Let's listen and respond with kindness and patience, setting clear and firm boundaries that reflect reality, not just personal whims. By doing so, we help the young ones—and perhaps even ourselves—understand the value of limits and the balance between freedom and structure.
May we all find the wisdom to be both firm and kind in our daily interactions.
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