Dr. Benjamin Spock said to ignore an infant
if you want it to come to you.
Don’t reach out or pay attention—
the baby will creep closer, driven by curiosity.
Yesterday, I visited my friend’s house.
She has a three-year-old daughter.
I’d brought a singing doll for her,
but she refused to approach and take it.
So, I followed Dr. Spock’s advice.
I ignored her, keeping the gift close.
Her eyes brimmed with curiosity,
yet I chatted with my friend, unmoved.
Soon, she made noises to snag my notice.
I brushed off her antics.
Bit by bit, she closed the gap between us,
smiling shyly—but still, I turned away.
At last, she grabbed my hands.
Only then did I respond.
She climbed into my lap like an old friend,
nestling close with trusting ease.
Inch by inch, she edged toward the present,
unable to resist its siren call.
I handed her the box, helped her unwrap it—
ecstatic, she planted a kiss on my cheek.
Soon, she sang and danced with her doll,
pure joy lighting her face.
Sometimes chasing what you want pushes it away.
Ignore it, as Spock advised, and it will come.
