Minneapolis 2026 - Experiencing Childhood

 Being a gay man, as well as for a number other reasons, I've never had kids of my own. I've relatively little experience with young children, let alone babies. On this trip I spent quite a bit of time with my grandniece, 6 months and grandnephew, 3 years. Observing them I began to ponder what life looks like through their eyes. 

A tiny baby, emerging from a dark quiet environment into a world of light, color and sound. Trying to gain an understanding of what is safe and comforting from that which isn't. I watched as she recognized her parents and grandparents, my brother and sister in law and my niece and her family live about a mile from each other. I viewed first hand the innocence and complete dependance on others necessary during the first months of life. 

The grandnephew, making connections, learning new things each minute yet still maintaining that innocence and dependence while striving to find a way to shed them and take greater charge of his young life. It must be exhausting, no wonder they need naps. 


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