Childhood Ain’t Nothing But a Life Long Lesson
MY HEART BROKE TODAY as I watched Aspen try to make friends at Two Jacks Pizza. Kid after kid passed her by without even the slightest of glances, which was perfectly fine to her at the time. She entertained us for a little bit running laps around the table, grinning like she always does and mouthing out random words like Aub, Drink and Bull Rap (I blame her father for that last one).
That’s when she landed eyes on her. She was young, probably only three, with wavy honey blond hair and rosy cheeks. After staring for an eternity, Aspen tentatively waved and chirped, “hi!”. Blondie was not amused. Pointing her finger at Aspen, she mumbled, “Dad, the baby is coming…” then a little louder, “Dad, the BABY is COMING!!!” When that got no reaction from her father who was ordering pizza, she waved her arm around wildly executioner-style and screeched, “SHE’S GONNA TAKE OUR SEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAATS!!!!”
Aspen cocked her head but was still standing her ground, hoping to have a new playmate. Blondie had had enough and proceeded to try and flyswatter her away with her hand. I was just glad Aspen hadn’t been standing any closer, as I could guarantee Blondie would’ve slapped her just to defend her precious table.
Little kids can be so vicious.
The only people who weren’t oblivious to this whole scene were Megan, Ashley and I. We’d even stopped eating, which never happens when Fat Sticks are around (Cheese Sticks, if you’re going to get all technical on me). Aspen turned to face us and big fat tears rolled down her face as she suffered through her first rejection. She stood there and sobbed her little heart out, and let me tell you, I’d rather walk over nails barefoot than watch an eighteen month old cry like that ever again. Ever.
In the end, I think all three of us adults were more upset about it than Aspen. Megan and I even stuck our tongues out at Blondie on the way out. Yes I’m immature, but that’s my niece. Nobody messes with her – three years old or no. Apparently, reactions never outgrow you, they just become a choice. Aspen was more mature than all of us combined when she waved and said goodbye to Blondie.
The whole experience got me thinking about just how early on in life we learn about things like love, rejection, wants and needs. It’s all too easy to think something is small and insignificant because they are children. I think we could all use a reminder to keep an open mind that kids go through tough times too, and we should do our best to help them through that, not just shrug it off or become angry or irritated. I fear I’m treading into water that I shouldn’t go (family wise) with this, so I’ll end on that note and hope a certain someone reads it. To all my niece and nephew kiddos, I love you. Aunt Aub will always be here, even ten years from now when you’re old enough to use the Internet (or allowed) and you find this post. If you ever need me you know where I am.
Aub you are so sweet! Aspen is so cute. I want to see her in person….I seriously think it has been since she was like 5 months old. I am getting the enjoyment of seeing G and A go through rejection. The other day it was “Mom, Gwenny is calling us ‘sassy pants’; she says we are babies.” I said “Ok let’s go to McDonalds.” As we walked off Gwenny was yelling “I don’t like McDonalds. I’m gonna go eat somewhere healthier!” LOL.
Usually it is them rejecting each other though. They always tell each other “You aren’t my sister anymore!” Oh my!
Aww… that is so sad.
And definitely hard to watch. Totally breaks my heart. At least you had fat sticks to help make it just a little tiny bit better. 
Your niece is a cutie! I hope she gets a break from rejection for just awhile longer. Life can be cruel.
Aub,
You really should go into the “industry…” Anita Stansfield doesnt hold a candle to you! Youre right up there with “Nie” in my book. That is exactly as it happened, and I couldnt have blogged it better. Im still upset about it!
Ash
Ahhwwwwwwww, so sad! Isn’t it just too too hard watching someone you love so dearly be hurt like that?
Aspen’s actions at the end of the encounter, where she said “Bye” with as much love and hope as she said “Hi” remind me why I should work harder to be as forgiving as little ones are.
They understand things we adults have forgotten.
Aspen is my new hero for not letting that little girl ruin her day or keep her from trying again.
Thanks for posting, ‘Aunt Aubrey’ and thanks to Aspen even though I’ve never even met her.
I agree with Ash…you should incorporate all of your experiences into
a book. It would be a best seller!! Aspen is SO cute….we should all
take a lesson from her. You are such a special aunt, Aub. Your family
is fortunate to have you.