It was a magical day in the happiest place on earth, just as it should’ve been. We enjoyed perfect weather, and even though there were heavier crowds than we anticipated, the lines weren’t bad at all.
One thing I’ve noticed about Lilli this trip is how she’s becoming bolder. She’s not as reticent to talk to people she’s never met. We were on the carousel, and seated on the regal steed next to Lilli was a little girl who appeared slightly older, and was dressed as Princess Aurora. When the ride was over, Lilli jumped down, turned to the little girl and said “Hi, you’re my friend! I like you! Can you come to my house?” After her mother explained that they lived in Michigan, Lilli surprised us all by walking right up to the little princess and giving her a big hug.
Putting the need to explain personal space aside, I admired her sense of humanity. At three years old, she understands our need for one another, and the ease with which we’re meant to approach our fellow man. As we age, we avoid contact and getting involved at all costs, it seems.
But you know what?
Every one of us needs a hug more often than not, and the deep pleasure of being called friend.
Maybe the next time a tiny princess is right next to you, you could give Lilli’s method a try. Or, who knows, it might work with the not-so-royals you see every day.
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” John 13:34 ESV
“If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.” 1 John 4:20 ESV