By: Jamie Thompson
Updated: Jan. 22, 2021
Originally Published: April 15, 2016
In the quiet of the evening, I ascended the stairs to tuck in my daughter, Lily, only to find her in tears.
“What’s troubling you?” I inquired, my heart racing. Had she hurt herself? Was it those heart-wrenching animal rescue videos again?
“I saw you,” she sobbed, using the back of her hand to dab her nose. “I saw you setting out the Easter Bunny gifts.” Her lip quivered, and a tear cascaded down her cheek.
In that moment, my heart sank. It was 10 p.m., a time I believed was late enough for her to be asleep. I understood that Lily, at age 9, was teetering on the edge of childhood and the tween years. Many kids her age were beginning to question the existence of magical figures like the Easter Bunny, and whispers about Santa Claus had circulated since second grade. Yet, Lily chose to embrace the magic, perhaps wanting to hold onto it a little longer.
I stood frozen in her doorway, grappling with a decision. Should I reveal the truth or let the enchantment linger a while longer?
“The Easter Bunny can’t be everywhere at once,” I found myself saying, choosing to preserve the magical essence of her childhood. I sensed she wasn’t ready to let go either. “Sometimes, parents lend a hand.”
I paused, anticipating an accusation of deceit. If she confronted me, I would have to come clean.
“So that’s why I see the same things in my Target basket,” Lily murmured, understanding dawning in her tear-filled eyes.
“Yes,” I replied, relieved to see her comprehension. She climbed onto my lap, resting her head against my shoulder. I often ponder whether she will always seek comfort in my embrace during her sorrow. Each moment felt precious, as if it could be the last.
Some acquaintances advised me to be forthright with her. “My kids stopped believing in the Easter Bunny at age 6. Just tell her,” they would say.
Yet, I’m not ready to relinquish the magic just yet. I know the challenges that lie ahead—boy troubles, friendship dilemmas, and the pressure to conform to trends.
Yes, there is still time for magic.
I cherish the fact that Lily believes she can soar with an umbrella like Mary Poppins. I smile as she envisions herself transforming into characters from her favorite films. I delight in her conviction that her stuffed animals have feelings and enjoy our meals just as we do.
Eventually, she will learn the truth about the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus. One day, her costumes and toys may be tucked away in a box, but that day is not today.
And I am grateful for that.
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In summary, the magic of childhood is fleeting, and it is essential to embrace these moments while they last.
Keyphrase: The magic of childhood
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