Tiny Hands, Big Love
There’s something incredibly pure about the love of a young child. It’s raw, unfiltered, and without expectation. For parents, this love is a daily reminder of the simple yet powerful bond that children offer. But beyond the heartwarming moments, a little one’s love teaches us lessons that we could all benefit from in our adult lives.
At her age, she loves me just as I am. She doesn’t care whether I’ve had a bad day or if my hair is a mess or I’m grungy. She won’t judge me for not being perfect. All she knows is that I am her safe space, her comfort, her world. She’ll hug me, laugh with me, and reach out for my hand without hesitation. In her eyes, I’m enough, and that’s all that matters. If we could carry just a fraction of that mindset into our daily lives—loving without judgment—we’d all be better for it.
She’s quick to forgive. One minute, she’s upset because she couldn’t have another cookie, and the next, she’s offering me a toy to play with. Her love isn’t tarnished by grudges or long-held resentments. She moves on, and love takes over again. This ability to forgive so freely is something we often lose as we get older. But watching a young child we’re reminded that forgiveness is a key to happiness. Holding onto love is always more rewarding than holding onto anger.
In her little world, life is all about the now. She’s not concerned with tomorrow’s to-do list or yesterday’s worries. When she loves, she does so in the present moment. Whether she’s giving me a spontaneous kiss or curling up next to me during storytime, her affection is immediate and real. As adults, it’s easy to get caught up in the past or future, but there’s so much beauty in living—and loving—in the present.
One of the most beautiful aspects of a child’s love is her complete trust. She looks to me with wide eyes, knowing that I’ll catch her if she falls or comfort her when she’s sad. This trust is built on unconditional love, not based on past mistakes or future promises. It reminds us of the importance of trust in our relationships, and how love and trust are intertwined. Imagine how strong our bonds could be if we trusted as fully and openly as a child does.
For her, love is expressed through the simplest acts. Holding my hand, bringing me her favorite stuffed animal, or simply sitting next to me on the couch—these little gestures speak volumes. There’s no need for grand displays; her love is in the everyday moments. It’s a beautiful reminder that love isn’t always about the big things. Sometimes, it’s the smallest acts that mean the most.
As we watch our little ones grow, their love teaches us to be better. To love without condition, to forgive easily, to live in the moment, and to trust deeply. Her love reflects the kind of person we all strive to be—someone who loves fully and freely, without fear or hesitation.
At the end of the day, it’s her unconditional love that serves as a powerful reminder: we can all learn to love a little more like a child.
