In the midst of the holiday chaos, I find myself easily lost in the hustle and bustle of shopping, baking and decorating while maintaining a full work schedule. Even at work, I get caught up with the many tasks to be accomplished and lose sight of what the holidays are really about. A small visitor recently reminded me to take a step back, slow down, and count the blessings that are all around me. I was watching through the eyes of a child…
I love this time of year because we celebrate the season at Shamu Theatre with “Shamu Christmas Miracles,” a fun-filled, action-packed, very festive show. During this show, we invite children to join in the fun and interact with the whales through the glass.
One lucky boy or girl gets the chance to step up to the glass with a trainer to give Shamu signals to perform behaviors, such as waving and dancing around in a circle. Interacting with a certain little boy is one of my fondest memories from this holiday season at the park.
The excitement and wonder was written all over this child’s face. His smile was huge, his enthusiasm contagious. In that moment, I felt the joy of being a kid myself. Like I said, it was contagious! My own smile grew and grew and I laughed as watched him waving and dancing with Shamu. I still have a silly grin plastered across my face.
Seeing a child’s expression when he sees Shamu for the first time or watching her amazement as the whales leap through the air reminds me daily of the dreams I had a child. My hope is that children young and old watching “Miracles” will remember their dreams and believe that miracles still happen.
Have a Happy New Year!
