The wisdom of my children and the fireflies they chase

Last night, I pulled my kids back out of bed so they could come outside and see the fireflies that were practically swarming in the fields around our place. I wanted them to see the wonder, but what I saw felt far more profound.

After they finally went to bed, my mind swirled with what I’d just witnessed as they bounded and ran and jumped and laughed and frolicked and screeched through the near darkness.
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The wisdom of my children and the fireflies they chase:

1. Reach for even the smallest light when you’re surrounded by darkness.
2. Seek beauty in the world around you, even if it feels fleeting.
3. Laugh with humility at your blindness, but always try to see.
4. Find joy in things you don’t understand.
5. Run with wonder into open spaces.
6. Be gentle with the parts of life you have the privilege to hold in your hands.
7. Care, not despite differences, but because of them.
8. Value experience more than possession.
9. Try being small, instead of feeling big, when you meet small things.
10. Go to bed each night knowing you are a part of it all.

Image: https://enchantedmountains.com/events/2019/06/natures-lightshow-synchronous-firefly-allegany-state-park-8647