I Am A “Bright And Sparkly” Girl

But this photo and letter that my mom found is evidence that I once was.

That’s me with my class and Miss. Apthorp.  Can you tell which one is me?  Seeing that I don’t typically post pictures of myself here, it’s probably hard to pick me out of this little-kid crowd.

I can tell you that I’m one of the girls.  I have blond hair.  I’m wearing pink.  And I’m hugging my little four-year-old buddy.  In other words, I’m in the second row, first girl on the right. 

The best part of this photo is the note that Miss. Apthorp included with it.  

There are so many things to mention about this note.  First, let’s state the obvious.  Based on Miss. Apthorp’s language and enthusiasm, it’s clear she was the quintessential 4-K teacher.  Not only did she use the word “sparkly” as an adjective to describe a person and not a sequined top, she also used the phrase “warm fuzzies,” which I recall was the antithesis of “cold pricklies.”  

As little people, we were taught to treat others so they felt warm fuzzies from us, not cold pricklies.  As adults, we would express this sentiment as “Be kind to each other.”  Miss. Apthorp also writes, “I love you,” which I don’t think most teachers do today.  I take this as an indication of how big her heart was and appreciate her effort to make me feel cared for and special.  

When I read this letter, I can’t help but wonder if Miss. Apthorp’s description of me fits the adult I’ve become.  I’ve never thought of myself as “bright” or “sparkly,” but I guess those words could be used to describe the smile I usually have on my face.  Do I still play well with others?  Typically, but it depends on who “the others” are and if they’ve crossed me or someone I care about.  Do I still share and cooperate?  For the most part.  But I bet my parent’s would argue I didn’t always display those characteristics with my older sister, Erin, and my husband would say I do not share when it comes to the blankets in bed, and lord knows he’s seen my uncooperative side.     

I guess what I’m getting at here is that Miss. Apthorp’s words, though they were directed at a 4-year-old, are relevant today.  I’d like to think those basic qualities she saw in me years ago still exist in me today.  I hope I give out more “warm fuzzies” than “cold pricklies,” that I still let myself shine from time to time and that I cooperate, share and play well with others, no matter where I am. 

So…here’s to remembering the basics of childhood and keeping all those simple lessons in mind as we go about our very grown-up lives.