We were invited over for dinner and connection over to Bryan-Julie's home, where they have a 2-year old daughter named Sierra who is just beginning to communicate with words. Once we arrived, Alex almost immediately went over to her and started to talk to her in his own way. He introduced himself and proceeded to teach her how to give "high-fives" where he would raise his hand, and he would pull her hand toward his. They must have played at that for at least 5 minutes. After a while, Alex went to show off his new skateboard tricks and play catch with her dad Bryan.
After dinner and after some time of connecting, it was Sierra's turn to get ready for bed, so Julie took her away to the bathroom. Around this time, I told Alex that it was time for us to go to our gaming fun night at Dave & Busters. After saying goodbye to everyone in the living room, and while working our way toward the door, Julie brought Sierra out to say goodbye because Sierra was crying and calling out for Alex by saying his name. When the two got together, Sierra raised her hand, and when Alex raised his, she proceeded to give Alex a series of "high-fives" one right after the other. She did this with a large beautiful smile on her face, which said "joy" all over it.
All of the adults standing around the children were mesmerized by the purity and innocence of the moment. Alex was touched by her gesture, and returned the high-fives with a kiss on the cheek. Nathan was quick on the draw of his IPhone, which has a camera on it, and happened to catch it in the moment.
We all felt a deep joy in celebrating Sierra's connection with Alex, our connection as a community, and the beauty that these children were showing us -- just by being themselves. This incident reminded me of something I read long ago:
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