Born Free

Two  year-old tourists put a smile on our faces because they don’t want chains or prison bars. That is why they rush to the door when they see car keys dangling from our hands, when we put on masks, lace up snow boots or grab our handbags.

Two year-old kids know the signs of leaving the house, and they want to be part of it. Most of the time, we ignore them even when they cry their eyes out. What is incredible is that they have no problem with parents going to work. They just say ‘bye.’ It is pure genius that they also know when adults are going out for shopping or fun. Then they cry. They don’t want to be left behind.

Once upon a time, humans lived in a circle. Yes, they went to hunt, fish and harvest crops, but the rest was done at home. There was no 9-5 as such. In industrialized countries, kids want that down time when parents leave the house for other reasons, not work.

They love natural air, not the air conditioner. They stare at people in public places. They love freedom so much they break into a run at the mall and laugh at cousins or parents trying to catch them.

Two year-olds love being tourists. They love the sun and snow. That’s why they cry when parents walk towards the car. They know it’s back to locked doors, security gates, fences, elevators and watching the rain from a window.

By: Nonqaba waka Msimang.