For those that missed it. Essentially, it is a story about questions. Toddler questions. Those questions that noone {I repeat noone} is able to escape, including our poor librarian. As a result of these toddler questions, we are on a one month library detention {enforced by me}.
Oh, the shame!
Today, there were more questions.
But today, I was not ashamed.
No, today, I was proud of the toddler question. So proud, I shed a tear.
This toddler question came as we were walking out of our local Woolworths. By the door was a young homeless man. He had collected a few dollars from people passing. He had a handwritten sign stating he was without a bed and needed food.
He looked untidy. A little bit gruff. Perhaps, a little scary in a toddlers eyes.
As we walked hand in hand, I could see Noah processing the man in front of him. I knew the questions were coming. I braced.
Noah stopped in front of the man.
He looked down at the money and asked the man "why do you have that money?"
The man looked up. He had a beard, blue steel eyes, a creased brow and a sad frown. He looked at Noah and replied that it was for somewhere to sleep tonight.
He told Noah, "I dont have a bed".
Noah was listening.
And with the innocence of a child, he said:
"You can stay in my bed, if you waant?"
He looked up at me and asked:
"Marma, can he?"
I was lost for words.
The young man put his head down. I think he might have smiled. I can't be sure. I smiled. We left the man with a few coins. Hardly enough.
As we walked, I tried my best to explain homelessness to my 3 year old child, but how do you explain to a toddler that a person has no bed, or house? No family. The very things that keep him warm and make him feel safe and loved.
And how do you tell a toddler that we as a society accept this?
Too many questions. Not enough answers.
And so tonight, as I tucked him in bed, I gave him an extra tight cuddle.
My beautiful superhero. May we always have each other.
Good night to you all,
Love Jo xxx