Another Lesson in Life

It's pouring rain outside; pouring harder than I have seen it in quite some time. And I'm thinking of Sam.

Sam is on a field trip today and a field trip is far from his favorite thing to do.

Sam's a worrier. He worries about people getting hurt. He worries about people's feelings. He worries about doing the right thing. If there is something to worry about, Sam will find it.

Sam also likes routine. He needs to know what to expect and he is not comfortable with change... pretty much like anyone, except more obsessive. When there is change, he worries about it.

So there is this field trip and he worries about getting lost. He worries about the long ride. He worries about getting back late and having time to do the things he wants to do.

I've done the best I can to prepare him, starting when the trip was mentioned in the papers sent home. Little by little, we've talked about the trip and his worries and how it would affect his day. He's voiced all the concerns he's able or willing to, some more than once and some, I'm sure, not at all.

I've tried to give him encouragement and support, while being truthful and be positive about it.

And as of last night, he finally seemed to be ok with the idea of going on this field trip, at least willing to give it a try.

We went for a ride and talked a bit more and when we were done talking, he was quiet for a minute or two. Then, with that tense, uncomfortable expression on his face, he added, " I just hope it doesn't rain."

...

Update: Sam got back from his trip and said he had a great time.