“‘Mom, can we check on that kid? I think he’s scared.’
For the 30 minutes Andrew was in surgery this morning (getting tubes in his ears for the 5th time) I listened to a child screaming in the recovery room next to ours. I’ll admit, I was a little annoyed, and concerned it would affect my own child’s mood. Instead of being annoyed though, my sweet nine year old taught me a lesson in selflessness.
By now, Andrew is a pro at this procedure and within 10 minutes of joining me in Recovery he had water, a snack and was ready to go home. Of course we waited a bit longer to make sure the anesthesia wore off correctly, but as soon as he was out of the hospital gown and dressed Andrew asked to check on the little boy next to us. I was immediately reminded what a kind soul my son has and that I should be more patient with others, especially those who may be hurting or going through a difficult time.
The family next to us was surprised by Andrew’s request but they let us come in, and I noticed their little boy stopped crying while we were in the room. Andrew told them he had surgery too and hoped his new friend got better soon. The nurses told Andrew he is a special little boy and they hope he keeps up the outstanding manners.
It is during moments like this that I think if Andrew learns as much from me as I learn from him then I can consider myself a successful parent; but for today, he was the teacher.”
Submitted by Tiffany Munday