Sometimes as a mom/parent, you do things for/to your kids that you KNOW is the best thing for them, but may be difficult in the moment. Today was one of those days.
First day of Kindergarten. When registering, we were made to understand that it was a BIG deal for them to let us come AND to let us come in the middle of a semester AND to let us come for half days (at first). So we knew that we better be on our best behavior.
The Princess was semi-excited. She did Kindergarten in the States and I told her this was mainly for her to make new friends and to learn the language. She said, "But I have 3 new friends and Daddy is learning the language." Hmmm. So after further discussion...she was more excited. Her 2nd story window looks into the playground (through a tree or two...not such a good view) and we hear the music everyday. Her curiosity won out. When we arrived...they inspected her nails (made me trim them on the spot), looked in her eyes, ears, and mouth all while speaking this foreign language to her. It seems no one is allowed in if there is the hint of illness (nails are for safety on the playground). Her teacher met us (the same one from the previous blog) and began talking to me. I understood...not one word. She took the Princess by the hand, walked away, (I tried to stand back) and began introducing her...the kids didn't wait to be introduced. They began to swarm her. Looking into her blue eyes from AN INCH away, petting her hair (6 kids at once), talking to her loudly, and laughing in her face (about who knows what). I saw the deer in the headlights look, but was helpless to do anything because immediately the two girls she'd been introduced to began walking!!! Bless their hearts! The crowd fell away behind them as they walked. Whenever they'd stop walking, the swarm came again. So after the first time, the Princess was DRAGGING the two girls around the courtyard. They were all so excited about the ONLY foreigner in their school, they didn't realize what they were doing.
School began with PE in the courtyard. It was quite a beautiful thing to watch, actually. Music blared over loud speakers, (in the King's English, I might add) and as one giant unit they began to move. Motions, jumps, rhythm exercises, ballet moves, marching band formations (in and out) and ending in a game. (The Princess couldn't be persuaded to try all the new stuff...she just watched. We'll see how long before she does.)Then more music played and they moved to the playground while the youngest kids came out for PE. I've never seen anything like it.
Recess. Ahhh. A beautiful thing. Needs no language. The first real smile I saw from the Princess came at recess. When the swarm would come, the Princess would take the girls by the hand and drag them to the next thing. (Remember, she is a strong-willed child, and likes to have control.)
After recess was class, sort of. Snack first. Well, we're still adjusting to the food. No snack for the Princess and no language skills for the mom to explain to the teacher who is trying so diligently to help the Princess settle in. We have a rule...you have to try it once and no turning your nose up, just say, "that's interesting," and move on.
Class begins and I can tell the Princess is about to meltdown. The students are all sitting in nice rows, but they keep getting up to pet her hair or give her a book (in a language she can't read). They really are excited.
A sidenote...I have class and have made arrangements for a friend (who knows the language) to sit in class with her because I can't afford to miss a class. So, it's nearing time to handoff and I'm frustrated because several times someone has tried to communicate with me and it's failed. They don't speak my language, I don't speak theirs. The mommy in me wants to get my daughter, go home, crawl in bed with chocolate and a movie and forget this crazy idea of Kindergarten!! BUT, the mommy in me also knows that some of the lessons in life that are best for us are difficult for us. I've learned a few myself and I'm still learning.
As I'm leaving, the Princess begs, "Mommy, please just take me home." Oh, stick a knife in my heart!!! I assure her that when our friend comes, it will get better because she can explain what's going on and talk to the teacher and that school is half over. I meet our friend at the gate and explain that she's struggling, but, "I think she'll perk up when she sees you."
After I leave, I SERIOUSLY want to go home and cry!!! But, I don't. I have on my armor and I won't be defeated that easily. I go to one of the hardest classes I've had...yet, and fight my emotions all the way through. When my class is over and we meet up with the Princess and my friend...guess who is smiling? Yep, she is. Things definitely get better when you KNOW what's going on. And when someone can speak on your behalf. After I left, my friend asked the teacher to have them stop "petting" her. The teacher asked them how they would like all these kids putting their hands in your hair all the time? That was all it took. Maybe mom isn't always the best, but I definitely KNEW best this time. And guess what else? There's a field trip on her 2nd day of school! She can't wait to go back!
The day started well, with a family prayer at home, got worse, and worse. before it got better...but I'm so glad I don't have to live by my emotions. My heavenly Father pours his mercies out NEW every day. I CLUNG to them today in a way I haven't in awhile. My quiet time this morning was in Phil. 1. A theme throughout was joy. Joy! Joy vs. happiness. Something that stood out to me before this day began was, "Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ." It's easier some days than others.
By the way, I hesitated to be this honest, but you know...God is good...all the time...even when circumstances aren't ideal. He's worthy of praise no matter what. So, praise God from whom all blessings flow!
