“Nellie, the Teacher” Each evening that I am home from my tra | Follow the Data with Dr Frank

“Nellie, the Teacher”

Each evening that I am home from my travels, Nellie negotiates for a chunk of my time for “cuddles, tickles, popcorn, and a movie.” Of course, I oblige her. Especially since I’ll be on the road the balance of the month. (We often do video calls while I’m away.)

Last night, we did dinner together instead of popcorn, followed by cuddling, and tickling on the couch and Mary Poppins.

Each time the music played Nellie would jump up, and then sing and dance in sync with the actors. She is surprisingly good at it, and has memorized literally dozens of movies and musicals. It is astonishing. Sometimes she even dresses up like the characters (e.g. Cinderella).

Last night as I was watching her dance it suddenly struck me how much joy I felt watching her proudly and exuberantly performing for her daddy.

Think of how simple this is… all Nellie requires is for her daddy to watch attentively for her to overflow with love and for me to be full of joy.

Reminiscing on the plane today, I’m imagining the God of the Universe on His throne watching His creation dance, and watching us dance the journey of our lives. I’m relishing the joy He must experience when those who love Him are dancing for Him.

Innocence is a remarkable teacher.