The Elephant Trunk
by Janie Lane
The dirty, gray elephant trunk is mischievous.
He reaches over the fence of his zoo cage and steals the popcorn from the little boy.
He means no harm.
He showers passers by with water he has stored.
All he wants is to play.
He looks over to his neighbors, the tigers.
They only give him a smug look. Cats are too good for a clumsy elephant trunk.
He splashes in the water all alone. Then, he discovers another lonely trunk only looking to play.
No matter what is happening in your life. Fighting cancer, feeling depressed, experiencing low energy, or just being in that work rut, you need to make time to play.
Here's what research says about play.
Helpguide.org tells us, "Play is not just essential for kids; it can be an important source of relaxation and stimulation for adults as well. Playing with your romantic partner, friends, co-workers, pets, and children is a sure (and fun) way to fuel your imagination, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and emotional well-being."
I know I'm guilty of putting off playing when I'm feeling stressed or overwhelmed, but this is the absolute opposite of what I should be doing. You see, playing is what gives us that break. It gives us the momentum to tackle the stuff in life that is challenging. If you don't take time to play and enjoy life, why are you even here?
I have to tell you, I had the flu this weekend. It sucked! I missed Kayden's football game, and I missed date night. Not cool. However, Janie, Tyler, and Kayden came by Saturday night. Before they got there, I felt like my stomach was turning inside out, but while they were there, I forgot for a little while that I was sick. Kayden can bring out the inner child in me like no one else I know.
Here's the deal though. You don't have to have a grandkid to remember to let the kid in you out sometimes. It's simple really. Run around the yard with your dog, or cat, or llama, or whatever you call a pet. Play a game of solitaire. Draw a picture. Stick figures are fine. Color in a coloring book. Watch cartoons. Or do, what I do, hang out with a six-year-old for awhile. I promise. Even if it's for a few minutes, all of your problems will melt away.
So, what are you going to play this week?