Recently, I started babysitting for a two-year-old. He is absolutely one of the cutest kids. Spending so many afternoons with him has given me a few reminders about my own life…

1. You have to keep getting up when you fall

He may fall as he tries to climb the stairs or run down the sidewalk, but he still keeps going. He’s only two, so tumbling over and ending up down on the ground isn't uncommon. But every time, he gets right back up and tries again. Even when life throws us setbacks, we need to remember that they aren’t a sign of failure but rather that we’re getting learning and getting closer to our goal.

2. Say what you mean

He has certainly started to say a lot of words, but sometimes it’s a jumbled mess. Sometimes I say something and he gives me a big, blank stare as if I’m speaking a different language. I spend an insane amount of time trying to figure out what it is that he wants. It's a simple reminder that being direct about what you want, need or feel to the people around you makes life easier, because none of us are mind readers.

3. Find joy in the little things

One of my favorite things about this child is that he loves to explore. He’s fascinated by everything -- especially bubbles. He blows them, chases after them and giggles. It is the cutest thing to see such a simple creation make him so happy. When we get older, we forget how exceptional the world around us is -- how beautiful the sunset is or the warmth of the sand in summer.

4. Just smile

I don’t know when this happened, but somewhere between childhood and adulthood, life hardens us and we stop smiling as much as we used to. So seeing this child smile so much just reminds me that we don’t need to take life so seriously.

5. Pain is temporary

When it’s naptime, bring on the waterworks. He gets so mad at me for making him stop playing. He kicks his feet and won’t even let me pick him up. But within moments, he’s forgotten everything and gone back to laughing and smiling. He reminds me that grudges aren’t necessary and a waste of energy. Life is too short and there is too much to be grateful for.

Thank you to my new two-year-old friend for teaching me how to appreciate life. I’ll miss you this fall!