Every adult is really just a grown-up toddler, really. That inner child matures with wisdom and experience, age and know-how, but really, deep down, there’s still some kid in us! We all have that innate sense of wonder and curiosity in us, and a desire to find and have fun!
This rings true for me at least. Between all the adult things I have to do every day, pay bills, show up for work, buy groceries, and cook meals, I try to practice the art of seeing things with a child’s eyes. It’s not possible to do it all the time, but when I remember, I try to let my childlike curiosity take the lead for a moment–and I don’t stop it.
I’ll buy a candy bar when the mood strikes. I don’t normally eat candy—ever, at all–so it’s a treat for me, and reminiscent of my childhood. Or, I’ll say hi, smile or wave to total strangers. A toddler sitting on a bench in the park did this to me the other day, and I’m still smiling about it. In a city where everyone is moving past each other so quickly, this teeny gesture, one that kids are so good at, goes a long way.
And, this one is probably my favorite. I will not hesitate to put on my rain boots and jump in a puddle like I’m 7 years old all over again (for the umpteenth time). Let’s get real for a second, splashing and frolicking in a fresh (or days old) puddle brings unbridled joy to every kid on the block.
Why? Who knows? But the two boys in the video remind me of my younger self. They are at the Ohio state fair when their already fun day just got a little better. They found a puddle, and they aren’t about to let it go untouched. The boys are having a sweet little moment together when a state trooper shows up! Imagine their surprise when an authority figure stops by. The boys think they’re in trouble, and pause their joy to look up at him, frozen, thinking they might get handcuffed for having too much fun!
But, officers just want to have fun too! Once the kids pick up on his kind intentions, it’s really just three boys splish-splashing around.
Click below to watch this heartwarming video that proves you’re never too old or too young to enjoy a big ‘ol puddle!
