Normal

I have had more conversations (both in my head and with others) about that word. It’s relative in that there are varying degrees of normal, and while I realize this, I sometimes don’t even see myself sliding anywhere on that scale. What would it be like to wear that label…what if you were known by that: “Good to meet you, I’m Normal.” I remember watching a game show one time and the girl’s name was “Spontaneous”...I digress (I’m not spontaneous either). The dilemma regarding ‘normal’ is its definition. If I go by Webster’s (a: of, relating to, or characterized by average intelligence or development b : free from mental disorder), then I have no problem (but, it feels like there’s a problem somewhere).

Taylor is tremendously normal, and sometimes beautifully more than that. She participated on the school’s “Quiz Bowl” team which won second place Tuesday night. I kissed her goodbye as she was leaving to catch the bus yesterday morning, and noticed she was wearing the ‘gold’ medal that she had won the night before. I confess I was a little uneasy, afraid that other kids would make fun of her for wearing it to school, so I cautiously asked if any of her peers would be wearing the same bling, if you will. She gave me a hesitant, “uh, yeah?” I remember the night before she had stated that “mom, a medal is better than a trophy because you can’t wear a trophy around your neck.” (She’s right…Vogue states that trophy-wearing is out this year, and that it’s all about the medals). So I sent my daughter off in a blaze of glory and watched her strut about 30 yards to the corner.

Is that normal? I don’t really care…that’s my kid, and I love her.
I guess, maybe, that’s what God might think about you and I as well.
Taylor left the house, comfortable in her own skin, content.
Lesson learned.

-juj