Belonging to the working class in a developing country (let me just add that), I’m not rich. In fact, you may even call me poor. That’s the truth. So things such as the pressure when my kids start to want what others have can break my heart. But I’m aware it is something beyond my control, and I always knew it’s just right around the corner waiting to happen.
Yet, I never really thought it’s going to start this early. :hide:
It happened (big) one day when my family was invited to a neighbor’s party. You see, in our small neighborhood, there are about three houses that you can call “big”. That was what our neighbor’s had. The house is relatively big and unlike ours, it has a second floor and has centralized air–conditioning. Because Khandi amused the neighbor’s family, they let her go upstairs to play with the children.
The following day, this conversation took place:
Khandi: Mom, I will buy that house.
Me: What house?
Khandi: That one (pointing to the neighbor’s house outside). P’s (the neighbor’s daughter) house, mom.
Me: Why?
Khandi: Because it’s big, and when I feel tired, I just go up the stairs and go to my room and sleep, mommy.
A part of me laughed at how my 3–year old could already know and speak about what she wants. But a part of me ached, and I don’t need to explain that.
Then today, another conversation took place:
Khandi: Mom! (With her back facing me, she stretched her arms out, and said) Why can’t our house grow big, like this?
Me: You mean, why is our house not big?
Khandi: Yes. I want P’s house, mom. It’s big.
Me: You really want P’s house, Khan?
Khandi: Yes, mom.
Me: You know what, Khan. It’s okay if our house is not big as long as Daddy and Mommy are always here.
For a while, I thought she wasn’t listening. I turned to leave the room. Then, she called out for me.
Khandi: Mom! Later na lang.
Me: What do you mean later, khan?
Khandi: Later na lang buy the big house.
I just wanted to cry at that very moment. But I braved a smile. I guess she listened and understood—definitely two of the best Christmas gifts ever you can receive from a 3–year old. =)
Merry Christmas, everyone!
5 comments:
*hugs* to you! your little girl is smarter than that and she will understand...
richness in spirit and soul is better than a bigger house. khandi loves you and you mean the world to her. don't ever forget that. plus dato ka sa gugma. agree? ayaw palag palag diha. =)
your girl has the sense that alot of adults dont get:-) shes one of your best blessings Jane:-) so blessed you are, because of that:-)
PS. you are not poor..i have seen poor and layo ra kaayo mo, hello!,hahaha:-)
Happy new year Jane! :)
so cute! and such an understanding kid :) i love your posts... definitely following this blog!
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