By José Dominiguez, January 2, 2020 — On December 31 of the last year, my daughter-in-law invited me to take my granddaughters, Sophia, age 4, and Amalia, age 1 month to the doctor. Sasha, my daughter-in-law, was driving and I was in the front seat of the family car. The little girls were attached to their seats in the back. At a certain moment, Sophia spoke with her clear and vivacious voice, “Mom, this New Year I’m going to marry Sammy.”
We were amused, but Sasha took the assertion with caution and intelligence. It was the proper moment for an educational experience. With a very loud, clear, and patient voice Sasha said “Sophia, when you use a word you have to be sure about its meaning.”
“Okay Mom,” replied Sophia.
“For example, do you know the meaning of getting married?”
“No, I don’t,” she answered.
“Well,” she continued, explaining: “When you find a person to whom you can trust, and that person supports your plans, and has common values and is nice to be with, so perhaps is time to -”
“To live together!” Interrupted Sophia.
“Yes,” said Sasha in a non-evaluative fashion, “And maybe they will decide to get married. By the way, why do you want to get married to Sammy?”
“Oh Mom, he is so funny when he plays the monster with me, that’s why!”