Succulents at the Madison Farmer's Market

Last week, we had the privilege of attending our daughter's birthday celebration at her Waldorf school. (She is a summer birthday, but celebrated by her class now.)

One of the things I appreciate most about the Waldorf schools is how they honor the rhythms of the year with such reverence and ritual.

As part of the celebration, my daughter sat in the front of the room, dressed in a crown and a cape. First her teacher told a story about her journey to be born. And then one by one, her classmates come forth, presented her with a hand-drawn card and said what they appreciated about her.

It was so sweet to watch each of them come up and present her with a card and say a few words of appreciation. 

There were many children who said simply "I'm glad you're in my class" or "you're one of my best friends." But a few were very thoughtful. One said, "you are very helpful." Another said, "I appreciate you because when you play like you're a bunny, you're a really cute bunny."

But several said this comment to my daughter:

"I'm glad you're alive."

I was almost in tears. It was such a simple acknowledgement. But so profoundly affirming.

I don't tell the people I care about that I'm glad they are alive nearly enough. I thank these wise first graders for the reminder to do so more often.

Tell me, who in your life are you so glad that they're alive?