Born to Love

 Whew!  That was a close one.  I am happy to report that I am swiftly emerging from my 3 day funk due in part to this little piece of pumpkin pie. Today we get to celebrate the birth of Blayne August Boler, lover of superheroes, dinosaurs, and fruit snacks.  



I am not sure that there are enough words to express just how much I love this little guy, but let me go ahead and try.  
    Born big and squishy, there were no telltale signs of the rough go he would have in infancy. His even-tempered behavior slowly evolved into inconsolable fussiness from what was later determined to be from constant, heartbreaking pain. We tried, but could not provide, the comfort he was desperately seeking. Finally, the months and months of unrelenting torment abruptly came to a halt as a result of a relatively simple surgical procedure.  
    What was that moment like for him when he woke up no longer in pain? Did he feel a sense of gratitude somewhere deep in his baby brain? Scientists believe that babies of this age do not retain any memories, but I can’t help but wonder if that experience might have shaped how he relates to the world. The experts in this area likely have a valid challenge to this theory, but it's interesting to think about it even if it's unproven. 
    I say all this because at the earliest stages of his personality development, it was clear that Blayne was an empath. He just has a way of showing the people around him how just much he cares. I am lucky enough to be on the receiving end and feel it through the extra tight squeeze when he holds hands and the unexpected hug that comes out of nowhere. I see it when he delivers those silent whispers to his pets, both real and pretend. I hear it expressed in the genuine appreciation he gives for the smallest things. And the sharing...so much sharing. 
    He has made it easy to love him and has so many people in his life that do, even as he enters the wily zone of toddlerhood. This blessed little fellow has stolen the hearts of many.  Blayne, you already know that you have won mine.  Feel free to keep it forever.  

Comments

  1. Thinking Made VisibleMarch 7, 2021 at 4:51 PM

    Blayne sounds like a remarkable kiddo. Your interest in his development and how our brain holds onto our earliest memories is certainly a facintinating inquiry. Identifying him as an empath means he will make some sweet girl a great partner some day. The details about the silent whispers to his pets and his genuine expressions of appreciation speaks volumes about the love his been offered. Sure enjoyed this love-filled blog. Glad you found your way out of the funk.

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  2. MMarch 7, 2021 at 6:18 PM

    What a honey! Thanks for sharing Blayne with us; he's a gem. Your reflections got me thinking about my own little guy and if / how his infant struggles changed his personality. Fascinating. I love reading your writing!

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