When my nephews played Little League baseball, I regularly attended their Saturday games. The two fields they played on were on the direct path to the snack bar, so sitting on the bleachers I observed the continual trek of players and coaches, parents and siblings, heading to the hot dog grill and snow cone machine.
One spring afternoon I watched as a young girl – maybe 7 years old – walked by with her puppy on a leash. He was quite young and rambunctious, and she was doing her best to manage him well, but his interest in the crowd was apparent.
Sliding off the bleachers, I walked over to the girl and asked if I could pet her puppy. She agreed, and as I reached down to scratch behind his ears, I asked what kind of dog he was. She sweetly announced, “He’s a mixed-up German Shepard.” I smiled, amused by the matter-of-factness of her response.
Of course I understood he was a German Shepard mix, but the simplicity of her child’s-perspective made the explanation pure and uncomplicated.
I’ve thought of that encounter numerous times over the years, and have shared the story with many. I’ve often pondered how much fun our days could be if our approach to life was simplified whenever possible. If when an impromptu tickle monster chase ensues, the dishwashing is postponed. If when our sons/grandsons build a fort with the sofa cushions, we grab a flashlight to join them on the adventure. If when our daughters/granddaughters set the tea party table, we don a silly hat and sip pretend tea while making real memories.
And may we also be mindful of the kid within. May an occasional Friday night find us at the local Dairy Queen reminiscing over childhood memories, instead of watching the week’s news in review. Once in a while, may we gather friends at the park, tossing a Frisbee instead of contemplating what tomorrow’s schedule will bring.
On its own, life can be complicated enough. But when chances present themselves – may we try to simplify. May we enjoy, may we laugh, and for the moments we’re given, may we live uncomplicated.