I attended a kindergarten  graduation yesterday. Before I go any farther, let me declare that I’m not a parent. Don’t pretend you weren’t wondering! It was for a friend’s nephew. He was graduating kindergarten. Yes, that happens. For majority of us, we only wear graduation gowns at university level. Well, six year olds are wearing them now too.

I haven’t had much practice with kids. In my defense, I hardly have friends with kids and the little practice I’ve had was with my little brother but I was more or less a kid myself so it doesn’t count. I remember holding his little hand everywhere we went. He’s now almost a foot taller than me! They grow up so fast. Sigh. Strangely though, little kids like me. Perhaps I should volunteer at a children’s home to get some experience?

As expected, the graduation was packed with many parents having to stand. From the looks on their faces, they didn’t seem to mind. Let’s be honest, the presentations kids make are usually not so great but the fact that they are kids makes them adorable. Ever noticed the kids that just stand and stare completely confused during recitals? Again, adorable! Kids can get away with  anything! I miss those days.

As good parents should, there was a mad rush to snap some pictures when the kids were receiving their certificates. As the best parents should, they blocked one another and they had to be ordered to queue. It was pretty hilarious as they had to do it, though grudgingly, when the emcee pulled out the ‘set a good example for your kid’ card. That always works!

The cute sweethearts all over the place, awakened some thing in me that I didn’t think was here yet. Next thing I knew, I was staring and making plans in my head on nursery school facilities I would want my kids to enjoy. I was asking questions about the extracurricular activities the school offered and how much the fees was…  I literally had to order myself to cut it out! I’m nowhere ready for kids. My ‘maternal nature’ seemed to disagree.

Next thing I knew, I had come up with a list of reasons why kids are awesome and I should have some!

  • They are so cute and innocent. Just being around that makes you want to be a better person. I’m always nice when I’m around kids.
  • I’m a cartoon addict. Can you imagine an adult going to watch ‘Brave’ all by themselves? Looks really weird. However, if I take the kid it looks like an awesome parent taking their kid to the movies! Don’t get me started on the t-shirt collection. I’m an awesome parent wearing matching tees with my kid.
  • There’s this feeling you get like you’re doing something important when you’re taking care of someone.
  • Is there a better feeling in the world than when a kid runs up to you and hugs your legs and refuses to let go?
  • Children are wise. Most adults long lost their dream capacity and became hardened by ‘reality’. Kids see the endless possibilities and follow their hearts unhindered. Muse.

I almost convinced myself. Almost. Then I remembered the poop, crying, fatigue, expenses and near insanity and snapped back into reality. I need a couple more years before babies begin to arrive. End of brooding mode.

mwendeMwende saysChildren,Graduation,Kenya,Motherhood
I attended a kindergarten  graduation yesterday. Before I go any farther, let me declare that I'm not a parent. Don't pretend you weren't wondering! It was for a friend's nephew. He was graduating kindergarten. Yes, that happens. For majority of us, we only wear graduation gowns at university level....