So, this happened: Kymaia promised that she would watch tv till 2030h and then sleep. I went to the neighbours for (a few) drinks to come back only at around 2040h. And what did I find? My daughter, who loves to watch tv (because she gets so little of it) had switched everything (the tv, lights, etc) off and was in deep sleep in her bed, snuggled in the duvet. Just as she promised. After all, she’s got to wake up at 0500h tomorrow and run, as usual.
I don’t want to talk about how much we, as parents, have drilled into her about the importance of making good on a promise. I don’t want to talk of how we, as parents, ensure that all promises are treated with the sanctity of some divine covenant. I don’t have to talk of the endless discussions I have had with her about how staying true to one’s word is sacrosanct. I just want to tell you how beautiful she looked as she slept.
Regardless of the differences her mother and I have, regardless of where we are going with this relationship, regardless of a billion things we don’t see eye to eye on, the truth is that we have created a beautiful thing together. And she will always be a testament to all that is good and optimistic and positive in the world for me.
Good night, little baby bear. Mamma and Baba love you more than you can ever know.
