In San Francisco, there lives an albino alligator, Claude. People come from all over to catch a glimpse of him. To spend some time alongside this utterly unique creature.
Honestly, he doesn’t do much. Most of the time he sits on a rock or floats aimlessly in the water. But that doesn’t stop people from looking on in awe.
It’s a good kind of awe, I’ve realized. They’re not laughing at the freak of an alligator because he’s different. They’re admiring him. His beauty, his strength, his individuality.
And to me, Claude’s become more than an unusual reptile. He’s become a lesson in parenting, a reminder of things I want my kids to know. Things like…
Our differences can be our assets.
What you look like on the outside doesn’t change your true character.
While blending in is safe, standing out is much more exciting.
It’s important to surround yourself by people who think you’re totally fascinating.
Home is where people know your weaknesses, but celebrate your strengths.
I’ll admit, there are times as a mom that I’m not so great at remembering or teaching these lessons. I find myself thinking it would be so much easier—for them—if my kids were more like their peers. Reaching the same milestones. Making the same friends. Keeping their cool.
It’s then that I try to think of Claude. And to remember that if they were more like everybody else, the world would be missing out on these utterly unique creatures that I get to have by my side each and every day.
Amy Heinz is the mom nextdoor. (Maybe even literally if you live in the SF Bay Area.) Using Our Words is her popular parenting blog filled with lessons she’s learned (usually the hard way), laughs she’s enjoyed (mostly at her own expense), and tears she’s shed (this mama’s got heart). She also writes for Disney Baby, Yahoo! Shine, The Mother Company, and more. She'd love to connect with you on Facebook (her true love) or Twitter (her new love).
I think this is a beautiful reminder of appreciating everything we find around us: in nature, etc. and using it to inspire us in our relationships with our children and others.
Thanks, Mindy!
I feel like this is the exact post I needed to read today…thank you!
I hope your sweet little creatures bring you lots of smiles tomorrow!
I have a son who is so very afraid of being different. Which, of course, is exactly what he is. It’s his challenge now, and will continue to be. I know. I was the same. On Friday, for our family movie night, we watched together The Odd Life of Timothy Green. What a gift it was for my boy to see the magic that comes with being different. And the responsibility. Next up: Albino alligator viewing.
Ooh, I’ll have to check out that movie. From what I hear, it’s very sad, and my oldest is uniquely sensitive. I’m glad it resonated with your son!