Goodnight has her own take on the world. I’ve come to know that already, but it shows up in interesting ways. We like to have conversations about books and movies and we certainly have our favorite quotes from both.
I read The Help by Kathryn Stockett before she did, but eventually she got around to it. When the movie came out, I went to it first because she was busy, but eventually she got around to that too. It wasn’t until after she had seen the movie that I used a line from it to try lifting her spirits when she was down.
I tried to do it as tenderly as I could: “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” Not a bad thing for any of us to hear from time to time.
Without batting an eye, GN raised her eyes to me and as tenderly as I had spoken, said, “I was born. I was raised. I was tolerated.” She thought it was funny, but somewhere underneath her tough exterior, I wonder whether that’s her take on her life.
My work with her continues . . . She is quick-witted and that’s to her advantage, but I don’t want it to be a cover-up for some unspoken hurt that could be soothed easily with a different perspective.
Just from reading your blog, I see that you are willing to listen to GN. To hear her. She knows that and it will always mean a lot to her. Now and in future. She will know her hurts are heard and matter.
Awwww…. I know that many of us go through times when we don’t realize how lovable and loved we are. I hope this was just one of GNs “moments”.
I agree with Lisa. GN’s hurts and concerns are heard. That is a priceless gift.
I think you’ve made it as clear as you can that you are available to listen when GN wants it, to offer advice when she asks for it, and to simply be there for her when she’s not sure what she needs. It isn’t always easy for either one of you. But when it counts, GN knows the most important thing…that you are there and doing the best you can for her.