Last week we were at Target and having promised Sam that we would look at toys as soon as we picked some new sheets, I needed to distract him. Aha! A price scanner on the end cap! He pushed the buttons and scanned things. A few moments peace. But, an employee (older lady) called out, "It's not a toy!"
I looked at her hoping for understanding or something. And then I got it: This is what the world is for little boys. They are chided and shot down for doing what comes naturally. I have the benefit of having gone through this age with Olivia and it was different. In a world controlled by women which is, let's be real, the world occupied by young children, is guided by expectations that girls can meet. Be quiet, sit down, obey.
I felt bad for Sammy's little spirit. The same thing happened at Portland Nursery yesterday. Sam was playing with a water fountain in 85 degree weather, not bothering anyone. An employee (older woman) came by and said he couldn't do that. "It will wear out." The fountain will wear out because a toddler is putting his hand in the water. Wtf?
I am very conscious of Sammy's behavior in public and obviously don't let him act like a turd out there. But I won't allow the world to kill his little spirit.
