About 10 years ago we were on our way to story time at the library and my daughter realized that it was "elephant" day and that the paper said to bring a toy elephant or stuffed friend with you. My daughter had a pink elephant that she carried everywhere, so I quickly grabbed the stuffed Dumbo that an uncle had given my son off the bed and hurried on to story time. The elephant had been sitting there for several months, but I hadn't yet given it to my son to play with, as he hadn't shown much interest in stuffed toys. We took Dumbo to story time, and from that day, he has never left our side.
That day, something clicked in my child and bonded him to that stuffed elephant with every ounce of his being. Dumbo became his constant companion and followed him everywhere he went. As soon as I caught on to this, we purchased a second one and rotated them out to be washed in case we ever lost one. (We now have 4 "old" Dumbo's tucked away in a closet and 2 current ones on the bed.) Dumbo has been to doctor's appointments, grocery stores, on family vacations, and any other place you can image (except church). Once, in kindergarten, he even went for "teddy bear" day. Dumbo's large ears have been great depositories for childhood secrets, fears, dreams, and thoughts. Dumbo learned to read when my son did. Dumbo calmed fears when they arose. Dumbo made everything seem possible and safe and less scary. Dumbo never cared if he was kept awake by a restless child who couldn't sleep. Dumbo never complained when something spilled on him or if it was too loud or too quiet. Dumbo keeps secrets better than anyone I know. Dumbo knows just when a snuggle is needed and when personal space is a better solution. Dumbo never demands anything, yet he gives unconditionally. Dumbo has spent the night in the hospital twice, he has had his teeth cleaned at the dentist, he has helped soothe sickness and worry and anxiety. Dumbo never gets carsick on long trips, and he loves to snuggle. When no one else could comfort, Dumbo could! He has eaten paper peanuts and artfully drawn steaks and potatoes, and he is always ready and willing to play...or to sit...or to just be there. Dumbo is in every first day of school picture we have taken, and he had his own photo shoot a few years ago. ;)
As we watched the movie, I watched my son laugh, cry, cheer, sigh, and gasp throughout all of Dumbo's antics. His euphoria at seeing his childhood "friend" star on the big screen was contagious. I teared up seeing such carefree, childish glee. Everyone needs a "Dumbo." So, "real" or not, thank you, Dumbo. Thank you for your service to our family. Thank you for your patience, your comfort, and the blessing you have been for anxieties, sensory overload, fears, "dangers," and long nights. Thank you for "loving" him unconditionally and being the very best "friend."
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