You'll Be In My Heart (Phil Collins)

1998...

Two days after Alexis's birthday (17 September)

1.17p.m.

While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about.

Come now, it's lunch time. Alexis hurry along now. I said as I try to maintain my balance while carrying her younger sister (who is growing at an awfully fast rate) as I try to release a free hand to hold Alexis's.

Mama... you don't have to hold my hand everywhere we go now. Alexis told me in her most grown up voice.

I turn around to look at my dear 3 year old daughter, rather surprised by her words. As a former pediatric, if there is one thing i'm absolutely sure about children, they love it when their parents hold onto their hands. 

It makes sense as the simple gesture potrays one's love and care towards their young children.

Mama... it's really ok. Alexis insisted but her eyes says otherwise. 

I smile. Come Alexis, I like holding onto your hand, keeping you near me. I said as I lead her into the dining hall.

I sat Olivia on her high chair and Alexis on another one.

The food is served and as Alexis is picking on her food using a pair of training fork and spoon, I sit in front of Olivia, trying my best to get some food into her protesting mouth.

I turn to my right only to find Alexis' eyes on me, her food untouched. 

Alexis, is something wrong? I said as Alexis has never been a picky eater.

Mama... I think I love you more than you love me. Her voice breaks, tears threatening to roll down her pretty eyes.

Now that's impossible. I said, shocked that she comes to such a conclusion.

It's true, there is only one of you but there are two of us. She said as she looks at Olivia.

That's not true Alexis, my love for you and Olivia is boundless. I love the two of you more than you'll ever know.

And daddy, daddy too. Alexis said, her spirit now uplifted.

Yes... yes. And daddy too. I agreed.

And Dembe. Alexis added.

Dembe is our (soon to be) family dog, named by Alexis. Yes, I'll love Dembe too. 

And Mother Nature. All plants and animals. Alexis insisted.

I nod, for a little child, she sure has a big heart.

Alexis, now convinced, finally tuck into her food.

For this little girl who hardly shows her affection towards others, she sure requested for me to extend my love to what could be considered as the whole entire universe when just a few moments ago, she was worried about having to share my love with her younger sister.

I smile wholeheartedly, tickled by the attitude of this sensitive and exceptional child of mine.