When PunditGirl and I took our trip a couple of weeks ago to learn more about her first year, we had a little extra time to wander around one of the best Chinatowns in the country.
I wasn’t sure we would have an opportunity, but our visit ended in the late afternoon and it was a beautiful, sunny day. So off we wandered, visitor’s map in hand to make our way to see the gate and stroll through the shops and past the restaurant windows.
At age seven, PunditGirl is firmly at the stage of the small souvenir.
Any trip we go on requires a stop somewhere to bring home a trinket that no doubt will soon be lost or broken. But she loves the hunt, as well as proudly handing her coins over to the cashier and strolling out of the shop with her prize.
Her focus was much different in the Chinatown shops, though. Usually her attention is captured by small boxes or pencils, T-shirts or friendship bracelets.
This time, though, a shelf of tiny little Buddhas just at her eye level stopped her in her tracks. First, she was amused.
“He has a big belly and boobies!” she exclaimed.
Each one was a little different — smiling, serious, different poses. She picked up several, feeling their smoothness in her hands and examining their various features. Of course, she wanted to know who Buddha was and I tried in my best, non-religious way to explain that he was a wise man who lived a long, long time ago.
After a few moments, she showed me a happy little Buddha — one who looked like he was smiling up at the clouds. “I want this one,” PunditGirl said quietly, “He makes me feel calm.”
For $1.99, I figured a little calm couldn’t hurt. But she’s become attached to the little guy. He has to sit on her nightstand next to her bed because “he helps me sleep.” She likes to rub his Buddha belly and is curious about why people like to have statues of him.
Is there a budding philosophy or religion major in my home? Maybe. But even if not, the chubby little guy is an interesting addition to her ever-growing souvenir collection.
On another note, it’s official! DC Metro Moms Blog launches today! Take a little side trip to see which Washington area moms are going to be hanging out there!
September 4th, 2007 at 10:43 am
I think the questioning is a good start. Who knows what will catch her eye next?
September 4th, 2007 at 11:15 am
That’s so sweet! I like that she liked him because he made her feel calm. That’s definitely a good thing to learn early in life! ; )
September 4th, 2007 at 1:06 pm
i love that she rubs his belly!
September 4th, 2007 at 1:26 pm
Rachel is constantly amazing me with her insight and maturity. The Buddha made her feel calm. Perfect. She already trusts her instincts.
September 4th, 2007 at 7:26 pm
My Youngest has multiple Buddhas in his room and makes sure to place them in very high places in his room as he was directed by a Thai tour guide. Also, you might check out the series of manga novels by Osamu Tezuka on the life of Buddha. They are amazing…
September 5th, 2007 at 1:15 pm
That is one cool story, one cool kid.
Julie
Using My Words
September 6th, 2007 at 11:16 am
Big belly and boobies? *I* must be a Buddha. That explains everything.