“What’s your name?” He eagerly asked as he jumped into my arms. I had just walked into the play area of the foster home we’re working with and this adorable 4 year old was ecstatic to see me. As he was hanging on me like a monkey, I smiled and replied “My name is Rae, what’s yours?” “Anthony!!!” He screamed. Then he jumped off of me like I was some kind of human jungle gym and pounced onto one of my teammates.
“Gosh, he’s the most outgoing kid I’ve ever met. I wish I were that bold” I thought to myself. Somehow this pint sized human was about to teach me a lesson. Anthony isn’t at all afraid to love. He will chat up any stranger and make them feel like his best friend. He’ll climb into anyone’s arms, yes, literally climb. I’ve seen him scale my team mate, Sarah, many times. Anthony loves everybody and isn’t afraid to show it.
It’s been a little over a week since I first met Anthony. Every time I see him, he runs up to me, stares me happily in the eyes, and asks “What’s your name?” And every time I tell him, he shouts “RAE!” Then he runs off and forgets my name again. But that’s ok. He’s 4. He’s busy trying to figure out who has the biggest tricycle and what color everyone’s shirts are. His mind goes a million miles an hour. No wonder he can’t remember my name. But, he wants to know it. He tries to know my name. He looks at me with a contorted thinking face trying to guess my name before he blurts out his favorite question again.
That’s true boldness. Not being afraid to be wrong or fail everyday. He’s happy, loving, and smiling. I think most people want to have those qualities. Anthony certainly had his share of hardship early on. At age 2 he became a foster kid. But that doesn’t stop him from radiating joy.
Tonight at dinner, Anthony stared me down, looked me in the eyes, and declared “your name is Rae. RAE!” He grinned ear to ear being so proud of himself. “Sit by me!”
