First Baptist Church of Herndon

Meeting of the Minds

Linda Soller | Jul 25, 2016

I agreed to have my fluffy four-legged grandson, Theo, spend the weekend. I agreed to have my two-year-old grand-daughter, Molly, spend most of the day Saturday. What I neglected to do was check the calendar to see if the dates for the two visits were the same. It dawned on me much too late to change plans. It wouldn’t be a problem except up to that point Theo and Molly had a love/hate relationship. She loved him from the height of someone’s arms, not so much at eye level. What had I done?! For some crazy, out of my mind, reason I’d also decided Molly would nap in the big girl bed. Her mother was dubious. It was shaping up to be a long day. Molly arrived, and much to her dismay Theo was already there. We went outside, Theo on his leash under my husband’s watchful eye, and Molly staying very close to me carrying a ball at least as big as Theo. With Theo secured and happy to chase the ball which Molly threw, we all relaxed. I cannot take credit, because I didn’t do anything, but the four of us laughed and played for a bit, before returning to the cool, but confined house. Somewhere along the way it happened. The two had bonded. Don’t get me wrong, Molly was not running to Theo for hugs, and Theo was only moderately interested in what she did. The combination of events left us all content to accept our situation.

The nap was a disaster and never happened. So the day was not perfect. I witnessed something far outweighing one nap. Easy for me to say, her parents got the tired child that night. I witnessed a change in attitude. Later I sat Molly on the couch and Theo was supposedly sleeping at the other end. She gave no resistance. I went upstairs to retrieve my phone and when I looked over the loft edge I saw her talking to Theo who had turned and placed his head on her blanket. Yes, I took a picture. Not long after she was walking around pulling her toy, calling Theo to follow her.

My offers of help to both children were made happily. When I realized the situation I have to admit I worried if I would survive. But love and laughter can make a huge difference, if we let them. Sometimes we have to have faith that our good intentions will come through. Sometimes we have to face those challenging situations with an open mind and open heart. By the end of the day Theo had enjoyed a couple of people snacks and Molly had accepted a few wet doggy kisses with laughter instead of fear. The next time our schedules cross I will not be reluctant or hesitant, but I will go to bed early the night before!

Have a great week!    : o)  Linda