Mr. Smackdown Has a New Pair of Shoes
In the 1940’s, George de Mestral went on a walk with his dog. That walk lead to the discovery of Velcro. When the man and his best friend arrived home, he discovered their legs covered in burdock. This thistle gift found in nature hastened children being able to put shoes on without help and a lack of tripping from laces hanging like spaghetti of their feet.
I’ve come a long way. As a teacher, I disdained Velcro on my students. Why? I felt that a 5 year old should be able to tie their shoe. It was a necessary fine motor skill.
I wasn’t a parent in my teaching days. Now I know why Velcro shoes are so helpful to a parent. I have always had my children in Velcro, until now.
“I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I
feel His pleasure.” Eric Liddell in the movie, Chariots of Fire
This picture represents yet another rite of passage that we have made this Spring. Mr. Smackdown got his first pair of lace up running shoes.
I find myself being pretty sentimental about this purchase. It is yet another step of teaching my child how to be independent, of me letting go. My hope and prayer is that as he gains independence, grows, and learns, that he will run with perseverance the race God has for him.
Congratulations, Mr. Smackdown! Those cool shoes must make you run very fast and jump very high! Jodi, so sorry about your “crappy” day yesterday…sorry I couldn’t resist! 🙂 Praying for you.