A job to remember.

Why so blue friend?

As time passed, I watched Sundrop effortlessly interact with the children while I struggled with my paperwork, a frown creasing my brow. In the midst of my frustration, I noticed Sundrop dancing his way over to me, his vibrant energy a stark contrast to my somber mood. He stopped in front of my desk, concern evident in his eyes.

"What's wrong, new friend? Why so blue?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine care and curiosity. I hesitated, nervous about sharing my feelings of inadequacy with him. How could I admit that I struggled to connect with the children and envied his natural talent for doing so?

Taking a deep breath, I mustered the courage to speak my truth. "I... I find it difficult to handle the kids as effortlessly as you do, Sundrop. I admire your ability to bring joy and magic to their interactions, but I feel like I fall short in comparison," I confessed, my voice tinged with vulnerability.

Sundrop's expression softened, his eyes reflecting understanding and compassion. Placing a comforting hand on my shoulder, he offered a reassuring smile. "It's okay to feel that way, new friend. We all have our strengths and weaknesses, and it's perfectly normal to struggle with something new. Remember, it's not about being perfect, but about being present and showing love and care to those around you," he reassured me, his words a balm to my insecurities.

As Sundrop skipped away to answer the call of one of the children, I found myself back at my desk, the weight of my paperwork feeling heavier than before. Lost in my thoughts, I was startled by a gentle tug on my jeans. Turning, I discovered a super shy and nervous kid standing before me, his eyes filled with uncertainty.

Struggling to get the words out, the child managed to ask in a soft voice, "Um, can... can I draw back here with you?" His hesitance was palpable, and I could see the longing in his eyes to find a safe space to express himself.

Moved by his vulnerability, I smiled warmly and nodded, gesturing for him to join me at the desk. "Of course you can, buddy. I'd be happy to have you draw with me," I replied, my voice gentle and reassuring.

The child's face lit up with a shy smile as he settled beside me, his small hand reaching for a crayon. "Th-thank you," he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper.

"You're welcome. What would you like to draw today?" I asked, trying to ease his nerves with a calm and encouraging tone.

The child's eyes flickered with excitement as he began to sketch on a piece of paper, his movements tentative yet filled with determination. As he immersed himself in the world of colors and shapes, a sense of peace settled between us, the only sound soft scratching of crayons against paper.

In that moment, I realized that while I may not have Sundrop's effortless charm or natural way with children, I had something equally valuable to offer – a listening ear, a safe space, and a willingness to connect with each child in my own unique way.

As I sat with the shy and nervous child, engrossed in our shared world of drawing and creativity, I noticed Sundrop watching from afar with a soft smile. His eyes held a mix of admiration and gratitude, knowing that the child, Kane, was usually reserved and hesitant around others. Despite his best efforts, Sundrop had found it challenging to connect with Kane, but it seemed that I had managed to break through the walls of his shyness and uncertainty.

Sundrop's presence was reassuring, a silent acknowledgment of the bond that was forming between Kane and me. His supportive gaze seemed to convey a sense of pride and encouragement, as if to say, "You're doing great, new friend. Keep nurturing that spark of connection."

The atmosphere was filled with a sense of calm and understanding, a shared moment of growth and discovery for both Kane and me.

As the drawing session came to an end, Kane looked up at me with a shy yet radiant smile, a newfound confidence shining in his eyes. "Thank you for drawing with me," he whispered, his voice filled with sincerity.

"It was my pleasure. You're a talented artist," I replied, returning his smile with one of my own.

Sundrop approached us, his vibrant energy filling the room once more. "You did a fantastic job, Kane! I'm so proud of you," he exclaimed, his voice brimming with warmth and encouragement.
Kane's eyes lit up at Sundrop's words, a sense of accomplishment and joy radiating from him.