THE MOUTHS OF BABES

When Kids Smack You in the Head With Some Philosophical Idea

What is truth, after all?

Photo by Tingey Injury Law Firm on Unsplash

You know how kids can poke at your philosophical side, don’t you?

Well, of course, only if you have a philosophical side. And if you’re not busy yelling at them. Or scolding them. Or trying to force quiet time on them.

When you just let them talk, and you listen. Without your eyes wide shut, only with your soul wide open.

Am I getting too philosophical? Wait for it because that’s when magic — or some long-forgotten truth — surfaces.

So, there I was, enjoying some quality time with my three-year-old, who had returned from a walk with grandpa.

Those are exciting times because of grandpa’s three-year-old-like filter. Imagine the crazy things he’s telling my son when I leave him (my dad) without adult supervision.

Actually, no, don’t imagine. I’ll spare you of it and share a bit.

On that day, Matthew told me they passed by a haunted house in our neighborhood.

I’m like that…

I’m afraid of the dark,
Especially when I’m in a park
And there’s no-one else around
Oh, I get the shivers,

I don’t want to see a ghost,
It’s a sight that I fear most
I’d rather have a piece of toast
And watch the evening news

…song that’s usually playing in my head.

Unfortunately, I could not have a piece of toast and watch the evening news that morning.

We had to have the ghosts-do-not-exist talk. Again.

Now, I hope you know you don’t ever open a conversation with a child using the words “That is not…” true or whatever else you have on your mind.

Invite the child to open up and brace yourself.

-What haunted house, Matthew?

-It was an abandoned house and grandpa said it was full of ghosts.

-And did you believe him?

-Of course! Grandpa’s telling the truth.

-Matthew, I’m afraid this time grandpa lied to you. Because ghosts don’t exist, and I’m almost…