Sandler's Glasses.
Most of us have had the experience of seeing the world through rose colored glasses. As much as I enjoy that privilege, I would prefer to see life through “Sandler colored” glasses. He has a one of a kind perspective; from seeing the beauty in a janky hotel, which would make the average guest consider wearing hazmat attire, to seeing life through a blind friend’s eyes, and viewing it as an incredible blessing. Whatever the case may be, it never ceases to amaze me that Sandler sees the good in every day experiences.
I recently booked a hotel online, where you essentially cross your fingers that the room you get in the lottery is at least safe and clean. When we pulled up to our standard, chain hotel, the kids thought we hit the jack pot. The inn was practically set on the shoulder of the interstate, so the location was convenient for a quick getaway if need be. It also offered free breakfast; that was an added bonus. The kids could not get over the fact that they could have unlimited access to Froot Loops, individual jelly containers, and flavored creamers all day long.
When we walked into the lobby, it was clean and had a potent smell of chlorine strong enough to kill algae from California to New York. I felt confident the kids would be safe and free from catching a swimming bacteria. The strong scent immediately led Sandler into the spa room—which had a tiny hot tub and small pool. Sandler’s jaw dropped on the floor as if he had just stumbled upon an enchanted water oasis. He asked if he could change into his suit before even going up to the room. I allowed him to because he could not contain his enthusiasm. Before jumping in, he came over to me and gave me a great big hug and said, “Mommy, thank you! I didn’t know this place was going to be just like the Great Wolf Lodge!” As I looked around at the tiny pool—with no water slide, or even so much as a diving board—I thought to myself, it is not about the elaborate attractions. For Sandler, it is all about the incredible adventure he creates in his mind. This place was like his version of the Ritz Carlton.
Upon his return from the five star resort (rather the 1.5 star dump) it was time to head back to school and get into our routine again. I think he was still caught up in the bliss of his vacation; he lost track of time wandering around school and missed his bus home. That is when he spent some time in the office getting to know a new friend who is blind. When I finally got to school to retrieve him, he eagerly jumped into the car and could not wait to tell me all about his new buddy. He told me that her eyes do not work like his and she carries a really cool walking stick that helps guide her. The two had drawn tattoos on one another to remember they were going to be friends forever. They had made plans to find one another later in the week on campus.
Though completely different and unrelated scenarios, Sandler never misses the opportunity to find admirable qualities in all situations and in all people. We all could use some Sandler glasses.
- Nikki