New Ways of Learning

Hannah started Special Olympics a few months ago. We attend weekly practices to be part of a group, to enhance her skills, and learn new techniques. Things I take for granted are brand new to her. Jumping from a starting point and walking out of sand pit a certain direction is something we don't seem to practice in everyday living around the house. She was baffled by the concept, and words to actions fell short of fluency.

I had to jump and show her, as I was reminded of every physical step in planning and coordination that was needed to launch my body off of the ground and to a new space following thought and motion. This was how she was as an infant. Every single move had to be taught and practiced. I see how far she has come, how easily she runs and throws, and each week turns into a celebration. A few reminders to step left and pull her arm back for a full arm extension makes the ball go farther. A shout out from the sidelines to, "Run with your head up and look ahead," make instantaneous corrections and lead to her success.

I see the things she takes for granted are brand new to me. Like the way she has no fear of making new friends and putting herself out there...Somewhere in my life I learned to be very cautious. I love learning from her. I am changed every time and it can be an overwhelming life lesson, or as simple as a smile. I hear her coaching words of encouragement to let the big things go and focus on the littlest ones that mean the most in the course of day. A picnic lunch enroute to our next event in a day won't write the article, or clean the house, or even organize my life, but it will provide sustenance and shared time with a precious one. This is where my little girl is my greatest teacher.

Sure, I can be proud of the way I teach her physical movements, mental applications, studies of nature, or just living as part of a family where every person is important and has needs. I can share faith and teach lessons by examples but she shows me how she gets the message every time. She displays her understanding in her prayers at night, or any hour of the day, where she says, "I love you," catching me off-guard, holding me in the moment. There is nowhere to go but the present when that happens. She is completely aware of the here and now, something of a gift I say.