life with a grade schooler: being there for a friend

As you unloaded your bag, you happily exclaimed to me you got a letter from your classmate (who I happen to know). On her short but sweet letter, she said sorry for suddenly crying during your task together today and that she thanks you for comforting her and that she’ll do better next time.

You looked so happy reading the letter (apparently you put off reading it until you could read it in my presence) yet confused as well. You said you didn’t say anything. That what you did was just rub her back and waited for her to cry her heart out, until she’s ready to move forward and carry on with the task.

After hearing your story, while saying it in your comical way, it’s my turn to cry. I’m so proud of you baby. Because you did the best thing a friend could do on times like that. Sometimes, all we need is just a friend who will sit beside us, pat our back, wait for us silently, support us, not judging us, wait for us until we’re ready to move forward again. Thank you for being you.