Saoirse was all tucked into bed, the room dark and quiet. She’d asked me to come back in for another hug. “Mom, I try not to misbehave.” “I know, sweetie. I can see that you’re trying. It’s hard.” “I try to stop, but I can’t. How do I stop, Mom?” She was holding my hands with both of hers. “Well, honey, I think maybe sometimes you should try to just take a deep breath and be still for a moment. That might help you calm down.” “It’s hard. I don’t want to misbehave…I know. When I do, I should have a glass of milk, or water. That will help me.” “Okay, that sounds good. Should we do that, then? Next time, stop to get a glass of milk?” “No. I won’t misbehave anymore.” She kissed me, the dropped my hands to roll over, pulling her covers up to her chin, cuddling Blanket. “Mom? I love you.”…
