My first love. Admittingly a very difficult topic for me to undertake. Please indulge me!:)
Thinking back to childhood, I recall owning quite the collection of stuffed animals. One particularly stands out in my mind. I didn't name him and for some reason it really didn't matter or occur to me to do so.
My panda. One of several gifts from Santa with a pure, shiny black and white coat, red bow and engaging smile. His glistening brown eyes reflecting the ornaments and silver tinsel on a vintage 1950's powder pink Christmas tree.
An instant new playmate to share all of my adventures with, and keep me company. The "ever there" bear. So loyal and true. I dragged him from room to room and he always had the seat of honor at my stuffed animal parties.
Seated on a red cushioned tiny black imitation Hitchcock rocking chair to music blaring from my parents "enormous" dark wood Magnavox stereo. Back and forth, back and forth we'd go listening to the Big Band sounds of Glenn Miller, Ella Fitzgerald, Stan Kenton (dad's favorite)- a multitude of artists.
With the patience of a Saint, my friend eventually watched me color, draw, dance, create building block villages and eventually hear me read as the years progressed.
I could talk to him, and share a laugh as I tossed him up into the air. He would allow me to bury my face on his stomach, cry out all of my pain and hug him with all of my might. He never criticized or passed judgement and always accepted me for me.
He lost his bow, his white became grey, and plastic nose scraped, but it didn't matter. My beloved bear. With all of this he innocently taught me to love unconditionally, trust and one other very important element. To IMAGINE.
Quite honestly at times I wish I had him here with me now - the simplest solution to so many of Life's trials and tribulations.
I am smiling now in reflection and thank you my fuzzy friend. THANK YOU!
"Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere"
Albert Einstein.
