When I look at a patch of dandelions, I see a bunch of weeds that are going to take over my yard.

... My kids see flowers for Mom and blowing white fluff you can wish on.

When I look at an old drunk and he smiles at me, I see a smelly, dirty person who probably wants money and I look away.

... My kids see someone smiling at them and they smile back.

When I hear music I love, I know I can't carry a tune and don't have much rhythm so I sit self-consciously and listen.

... My kids feel the beat and move to it. They sing out the words. If they don't know them, they make up their own. 

When I feel wind on my face, I brace myself against it. I feel it messing up my hair and pulling me back when I walk.

... My kids close their eyes, spread their arms and fly with it, until they fall to the ground laughing.

When I pray, I say thee and thou and grant me this, give me that.

... My kids say, "Hi God! Thanks for my toys and my friends. Please keep the bad dreams away tonight. Sorry, I don't want to go to Heaven yet. I would miss my Mommy and Daddy."

When I see a mud puddle I step around it. I see muddy shoes and dirty carpets.

... My kids sit in it. They see dams to build, rivers to cross, and worms to play with.

I wonder if we are given kids to teach or to learn from?

Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.

                       ~ Author Unknown ~

Editor's Note: The above photograph was taken by Sandy Pofahl in 2003 while on the annual 52Best trip to South Africa. The kids were in a small village school near the Bongani Mountain game preserve. What they lacked in books and electronics they more than made up for in raw enthusiasm and friendliness.

 All original artwork, text, and layout are Copyright © 1999 by 52Best, Inc. 
  The name 52Best, the 52Best logo, and the name "Angel Star" are marks of 52Best, Inc.