The other reason I like 4 is because of IP. He was 4 when I lived with his family for 5 months in Bangkok. I think IP was an adult at 4 too. He seemed to recognise me..
On the 2nd day I arrived, IP came up to my room with a stick of liquorice. Apparently he’d asked, “Can I have one for my new friend?” Friend? I was 21 years older than him, he could have been my kid!
Through spending time with him, I re-lived 4. The terribles and the goods. And maybe even recovered a little, forgave myself for peeing in a puddle and being needy, found that 4 was a time to be bold (like IP was), but also to need (like he did).
4 is looking out for friends and helping them to overcome their fears. 4 is throwing a tantrum and recovering when the older brothers say big boys don’t cry. 4 is being lifted by 15 and waving proudly from the roof of a parked bus. 4 is blading to the store with 10 and 25 to get stuff for the family. 4 is being carried by 25 when sorrow is too heavy (for even a brave little one) to bear. 4 is crazy trust and giant disappointments..
It isn’t always easy to raise (or be) 4 but it’s worth the while. IP will always be one of my favourite reasons for liking 4.