Downs With Ups

If I sometimes feel that there’s too much bad news in the world, it doesn’t take me long to remember that people are mostly kind, caring and generous. How do I know this? I see it almost every time I’m in public with Poppet. Not only is she stared at, which drives her up the wall, (see my post http://downswithups.com/category/social-interaction/), but she usually encounters at least one person who is genuinely interested in connecting with her.

I’m often touched by the kind gestures made by complete strangers, as they respond to Poppet. People from backgrounds as varied as little old ladies to heavily tattooed truckies, from boisterous youths to middle aged adults have all displayed a softer, engaging side to their personalities.

I’m not sure if this is the same for other parents, but it seems that some people also feel compelled to give Poppet something. I don’t really know why, but it seems that their gift is an extension of their sincere wish for happiness for Poppet.

“Do you like bacon and eggs?” Poppet was asked, as we checked in to a hotel during the holidays.

“Oooh yes. They’re delicious,” replied Poppet enthusiastically.

“Well, I see you’ve only paid for your room charges for your stay,” the young woman said to me, “so I’m going to upgrade this to include a full buffet breakfast each morning.” Returning to Poppet, she added, “that way you can eat as much bacon and eggs as you like.”

Genuinely surprised and grateful, we both thanked the young woman, whilst I wondered what to do with the small packets of cereal and long life milk I had stashed in my case, as a way of saving money.

Poppet doesn’t disappoint either when she receives a gift. Although she prefers to give others presents (see my post http://downswithups.com/category/friendships/ ), she responds with an infectious enthusiasm and sincere gratitude. It doesn’t matter if the gift comes from the rough-looking ride operator at the beachside carnival, who gives her an extra ride, or the middle-aged woman at the checkout who gives her a Christmas decoration on the spur of the moment. Poppet’s reaction is always the same. She is always surprised (as am I), but then shows a warm, authentic appreciation. This is especially so on her birthday.

It’s Poppet’s birthday tomorrow. We’ve been counting the sleeps since early October and now we’re down to one. I’m excited because I know I can expect to see the joyous pleasure Poppet will feel when she’s surrounded by the people she loves, enjoying her favourite food and her delight in opening the presents that have been generously given to her from our wonderful friends.

I can see it now. She’ll receive the gift and give that person a hug, maybe a kiss on the cheek, with a heartfelt, “thank you, so much.” She’ll then start to open the envelope of the card. This is a bit tricky for her as her fine motor skills are not quite honed enough to manage this. Usually, someone will jump in and help her. She’ll read the card out loud, turn to the person and thank them again, then commence opening the present.

This for us will seem like an age, for once again, her under-developed fine motor skills and her low muscle tone will conspire against her as she attempts to battle sticky tape, ribbons and the surprisingly-difficult-to-rip-open-in-a-hurry wrapping paper. Piece by piece, the paper will come off to reveal the treasure inside. Once again, Poppet will give a heartfelt hug and ‘thank you’.

She could unwrap a present consisting of an onion and she will still be grateful, for she intrinsically understands the intention of the gift. When it comes to Poppet, there really is a joy in giving.