The Light Comes On

I've mentioned before how Micah has the need to dwell in darkness. At random times through the evening, all lights have to be off. Also at specific times in specific movies. And when I say all lights, I mean all as in the living room, the kitchen, the entire downstairs, and the whole house in general. Dark is dark.

Sometimes we deal with it and let him have his fun, because kids need to play and pretend. But sometimes we actually have things to do, like make dinner, and then we need lights so that mommy doesn't cut off her finger with a sharp knife. At those times we deem it necessary to go head to head with Stubborn.

The other night, during one of the Dark Moments, I wasn't complying. I needed a light to read with, and sitting in the dark with a book open on my lap just wasn't going to work for me. I told Micah no, continued reading, and listened to him tantrum his way out of the room and away from the Evil Mother.

You win some, you lose some. He lost that one, but that's life.

It wasn't three minutes later that Micah came into the living room wielding a flashlight. He handed it to me, and pointed to my reading lamp. While it's not the easiest way to read, I was more than glad to comply. The thinking skills and problem solving Micah just exhibited? Amazing.

I fear we sorely underestimate that child.