I'm not a monster

By -
We went to a park last night...all four of us. Two other 4-year-old children at the park immediately became interested in Eli. They squated in front of him staring. Eli said "I am four and this is my mom (waving to me). My name is Eli." Eli was the only polite one of the bunch. They just watched him.

One asked me, "Where are his feet?" I said, "We left them at home." I heard one comment to another later, "He has three fingers and one thumb." A bit later, one said "He looks like a monster with those feet." My sweet Eli said to no one in particular, "I'm not a monster." David corrected the kid telling him that was unkind to say and he should never say that about another person.

I knew Eli's spirit was untouched by the incident.

I was mad at the kid, but heart broken that Eli heard the declaration. Sophia missed the exchange, but later caught on that some kids were treating her brother unkindly. She is very protective. Love her.

Today, Eli doesn't know he's any different from anyone else. I'm basking in that.

Love you all,
Melissa

Comments

Charlene Shubin said…
My heart has hurt for Eli since I read David's facebook post. The insensitivity of children never ceases to amaze me. I am so thankful to hear that his sweet little spirit wasn't wounded in this thoughtless exchange of opinions.
March 23, 2011 at 7:02 AM
Lora L Roberts said…
Hang in there, I know it hurts for our children. Eli is so sweet. So many times children being insensitive to others stem from the actions they have watched their parents through the years.
March 23, 2011 at 7:38 AM
Unknown said…
I know than My wife Brooke.. LOVES Eli.... He is one of the cooliest kids ever....
March 23, 2011 at 11:32 AM
Anonymous said…
I am so proud of Eli's response. He has great people surrounding him and giving him confidence. Unfortunately, children can be cruel to anyone and everyone...so can adults. Continue the great parenting, that's why God gave you the privilege of having and loving Eli. I love you all...Aunt Lesli
March 23, 2011 at 11:35 AM
Leveta said…
I'm with Charlene on this one. I work with children every day and I too stand amazed. It sounds like Eli has been around people who fill him with the right words to say and still be as sweet as possible. It is too bad those children can't spend sometime around him and get to know him better and find out they are missing out on getting to know a wonderful boy and family.I wish I had that opportunity. I have NF and the questions and comments from children and adults nevery end. I am so looking forward to heaven when we will all have a perfect body. Kiss that sweet boy for me.
Leveta
March 24, 2011 at 8:07 PM
Nellie Kelly said…
That stinks, and I'm sorry. I'm also glad that other children get to meet Eli and hopefully will learn a little compassion before they turn into self-centered adults.
March 29, 2011 at 10:01 AM
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