We are actively in the mode of potty training my son. We are encouraging him to go on his own when at home, and to tell us whenever he needs help when we are on the road. My wife and I are committed to encouraging him when he does tell us that he has to use the potty. Recently, we were driving and he announced from his car seat that he had to go potty. We made a quick turn off at the nearest store and took him in to use the facilities. We made sure he knew we were proud of him that he told us and that he stayed dry!!
Today, we were again driving and he announced he had to go potty. It was a bit overcast and threatening rain so I pulled into a store parking lot and tried to find a close open parking spot. The lot was full and I had to park far from the store. My son announced he had to go potty “Real Bad”. As I am running with him in my arms to get to the store and with cracks of thunder and dark rain clouds overhead, he asks why I am running? I tell him that I am rushing to get him in the store. He probes my answer with a follow up question fully knowing there is rain in the air, by asking, “are you rushing to the store so you don’t get wet?”
The implications of that question led me to think…how often are questions asked of us that have meaning far beyond what is seen or heard at face value. Communication is a delicate and intricate art, science and philosophy. I believe when we choose to engage those around us, feel their energy, experience their spirit, and bridge the gap of trust (or lack of it)we can make the communication skill one of mastery.
Yes, son, I am running so that I don’t get wet!
Thanks for this post, it is great