When we treat children’s play as seriously as it deserves, we are helping them feel the joy that’s to be found in the creative spirit. It’s the things we play and the people who help us play that make a great difference in our lives. — Mr. Rogers

I love to play. My third favorite thing to hear is “Miss Emilee, will you come play with me?” (1st and 2nd favorite things are “Do you want some queso?” and “Let’s go Rangers!”)

I don’t care what we play, whatever you want to play, I’ll play. Dominoes? Sure. Basketball? Why not. A game we made up using random objects within our reach? Absolutely. A board game? You bet. Just as long as we play, face to face.

Because something amazing happens when we play. When we play, we can laugh. We can problem solve. We can connect in an unobtrusive way. We can have easy (ish) conversations about hard things because our minds aren’t worried about the facade we live behind. We can be vulnerable and authentic and not even realize it. We can build our friendship one playtime at a time.

Our minds are free to wander and explore because they’re engaged in something else far less daunting. Our true selves are exposed. And when they’re exposed, we can be loved for exactly who we are in that moment, not for who we want  to become or pretend to be.

I really love to play.
Peace be the journey.