A new young 4th grader comes to visit us yesterday, and as I’m getting to know her, I ask all the usual questions. We talk about hobbies she enjoys and music she loves, but then we start talking about talents and dreams. I ask, “So what do you want to be when you grow up?”
I’m remembering all the standard answers that have everything to do with importance, money, or fame. I think about the other categories of dreams I hear about that always launch the child into a life of excitement and adventure.
But this little one tilts her head up, closes her eyes in thought, and finally says, “A great friend.” She slips off the counter stool and goes on her merry way.
When she grows up, she knows she’ll really be something if she’s a great friend.