Topher's First Apology

Today Topher is learning how to say he's sorry. Yesterday at the park, Topher and I ran into my friend from church, Laura, and her daughter Brynlee, who's just a month older than Topher. They also live on the same street as us, just a few doors down. Brynlee is so petite and adorable, and she's very advanced for her age. We were all standing near the water fountain and out of nowhere Topher just came up behind Brynlee and shoved her with both of his hands. This caused her to fall forward and hit her face on the water fountain. Now I know kids will be kids but I REFUSE to be the mother of a bully. Even if Topher was not acting maliciously (and he obviously wasn't) he needs to understand that pushing is never okay, and it is never okay to make your friend cry. So after several apologies from me to Brynlee's mom (who was so nice about it and said it was fine) we all walked home together and Brynlee really did seem okay, except for a couple red marks on her face. Well, this morning I could tell that Topher was still feeling bad about what he did to Brynlee so we went out and Topher helped me choose a few gifts for his friend. Then came the most important part: the actual apology. I helped Topher say the things he wanted to say, but he was adamant about signing the card himself. After dropping the gift off at Brynlee's house, Topher felt a lot better.

I know he's only a year and a half, but I believe it's never too early to learn how to be a gentleman. Topher, everybody makes mistakes but I'm so proud of you when you say you're sorry. That's what a little gentleman would do.

--KC