There Is Hope

Sunday, my wife and I went to get our hair cut at the way-too-expensive place we’ve been going to for years—probably 15 years, come to think of it. I couldn’t even guess how many times I’ve been in. I go about every six weeks, so you can do the math. But that’s not what this is about.

What this is about is something much more important: I realized there is hope for the future.

I was sitting in the waiting area, playing a game of Sudoku on my phone while my wife was finishing up. A family of three walked in—two adults and a little boy—and they sat down in the chairs to my right. Only two seats were open, and I had my wife’s purse on the chair beside me. When I noticed the boy needed a seat, I moved the purse and offered him the chair. He sat down, and I went back to my game.

A song came on in the shop, and I found myself moving my legs in rhythm to the music. That’s when I heard the little guy say, “You really like that song.”

I told him I sure did, and that I was having trouble remembering the name of it. I said I was pretty sure I first heard it long before he was born. He looked up and told me he was five.

“Well then,” I said, “you must be starting school soon—kindergarten, right?”
“Yup,” he replied proudly, “in two months.”

We talked for a minute about starting school. Then, out of nowhere, he told me, “When I grow up, I’m going to tell my kids there won’t be any rules.”

To which I replied, “Well, kindergarten might be an adjustment for you.”

By then, my wife had finished, and it was time for me to pay. Before we left, I walked over to say goodbye to my new friend. I put my hand on his back and said so long. He turned toward me to give me a hug—but stopped, looked to his mom for the okay, got the nod, and then gave me a big hug (around my leg of course—he’s five).

I was really moved by the whole exchange. This little guy, 61 years younger than me, and I were just talking—about music, school, and his vision of the future. I’m pretty sure his “no rules” plan will evolve over time. But for now, he’s doing just fine.

When I walked out of that shop, I thought: What a great little guy.
Full of energy, full of love, and wonderfully articulate.
I wish him happiness—only happiness—in the years ahead.