Innocence

Thursday night was Trick or Treat night in our community. I look forward to it every year. The little ones are so darling. They cry "TRICK OR TREAT" and hold their candy bags out proudly. They peer into my basket to see what is about to be added to their collection. Shouting 'Thank You!!" they rush to show their parents what they received before scampering off to the next house.

This year I had several who wanted to talk. They explained their costumes, why they picked them, what their favorite candies are, how their school costume parade went. I listened to their animated tales, happy they felt like sharing with me. What a hoot!

There were a few I didn't recognize. Some are from depressed or unsafe areas of the city. I welcome the children knowing their parents have made a wonderful choice. We have plenty to share and those brilliant smiles and bright eyes deserve to celebrate a fun American tradition without worry.

To be so animated. Bubbly. Living in the moment. Safe with neighbors who care. Protected by parents who love them. As it should be...on Beggers' Night and the other 364 of the year.