Lola

My cousin Lola made such an impression on me while I was here visiting my family. The truth is I am usually pretty awkward around kids and they require so much energy that I often don't make much of an effort to because I just can't keep up, most kids aren't receptive to that, much less perceptive enough to accommodate. 

Lola is going into 1st grade and has a soft spot for art, and people. It's not hard to imagine why we would get along, but still I was pretty exhausted when she first came over. She took to my sister right away, as all kids do. They love her, she is so much fun and I am always so grateful for her because it takes that pressure off of me, but Lola had this openness for me too and she lowered her energy level to match mine when she was hanging out with me, amazing. But that's not the only thing that got me, I watched her while she was there and I was blown away by her compassion. She paid attention to everyone, even when she was shy she included them. She didn't get upset easily, even made other people feel ok about their mistakes and was very accommodating, not your typical grade-schooler! At one point people were leaving and in the commotion could have been easily missed but she made sure to get your attention subtly so you could say goodbye. She also made sure everyone was heard and properly acknowledged, and I could tell she wouldn't stand for anyone picking on anyone else. I saw so many of these little considerations from her, things people take for granted. 

She is the perfect connector, she does it with such ease you don't even know it happened. I imagine she will make the best, most loyal kind of friend. Little Lola I saw you and you are brilliant.