Patience, My Son

In my neighborhood, young (and whiny) children learned a little diddy that went something like:

"Have patience, have patience
don't be in such a hurry.

When you get impatient

You only start to worry.

Remember, remember

that God has patience too.

Just think of all the times when others

Have to wait for you."

But 'round these parts, young ones have added a second mantra to recite:

"Jack in the box

Sit so still

Will he come up?

Yes! He will!"

It's not a song (which is disappointing for those of us who like to sing everything), but this one lets the little ones (and those of us hoping it works) actually do something.

You see, participants can squat down while chanting the first three lines, pause after the question mark, and then pop up like a jack in the box for the grand finale. The idea is to lengthen the pause after questioning Jack's return, thus teaching patience to the expectant child playing with you.

(I whisper the chant, too, calming Cal's desire to whine and my frayed nerves from prior complaints.)

Calvin was intrigued the first time we played. When mom and dad dropped to the floor, Cal followed suit in a hurry. And he waited for us to pop up each time. Now a days, not so interested. But I think the idea is sinking in. At least when he's in a thermos.