Life Lessons

I learned yesterday that I can teach my kids lessons they will use for the rest of their lives anywhere. Andrew somehow convinced me to take him to Wal-mart after school yesterday. He really wanted to use his hard earned money to buy a new Lego set. Ally was at dance so we decided to take advantage of this time to get her a few birthday presents too. While doing our shopping we could hear a little baby crying and crying. We passed him and his mom trying to hurry and get the few things you could tell she really needed. When we were in another section we passed her again, baby still crying. Vanessa noticed him so I pointed the baby out to her and commented on how sad he was. The mom apologetically explained how he hates his car seat. I sympathized with her and we went to get our last things on our list. We got in line to check out and guess who was in front of us, the mom with her baby. he was no longer crying because he was no longer in his car seat. His poor mom was trying to hold him while unloading her cart. I asked Andrew if he would help her unload her groceries. He gave me his shy, 'are you serious Mom' look but reluctantly went to her cart and started helping her. The mom looked up a little shocked so I explained he wanted to help her. I could see the wave of relief wash over her. She thanked me and then talked to Andrew as they unloaded her cart. As soon as they were finished she quietly asked me what his favorite candy bar is so she could buy him one to thank him. I told her no and that he needs to learn to do things for others just to help, not because he will get something in return. After she paid for her items she thanked Andrew again and told him she hopes her boys grow up to be as nice as he is. He looked at me with a HUGE smile on his face. I thought to myself that he got it. I just didn't realize how much. We got home and he quickly got out of the car with his Legos. I figured that was the last I'd seen of him 'til his new set was complete. He quickly returned and started unloading the groceries from the car. Andrew really is a great helper but I figured he'd be so excited to build his new Legos he'd forget about helping me but he didn't. Not only did he help unload the car but he also help put things away once in the house. I am so grateful for these times and for the fact that my kids pick up on the lessons being taught. Now if I can just figure out a way to teach them to get along with each other.