I Admit to Being Afraid of . . .
I admit to cowering in corners and climbing on tables when tiny four legged creatures are anywhere near. I’m terrified of mice and gerbils, hamsters and guinea pigs, and can you believe it even bunnies! Yes, it’s a full-fledged phobia. I had truly rather see a bear come into my house (that has happened and I’ll blog about it another time) than a teeny tiny you know what.
When I was teaching (especially in preschool-type settings) it could be a problem if any of the aforementioned creatures were out and about for any reason. When I visited schools and orphanages in Russia I had many amazing experiences. One involved a little boy who walked up to me and said something with the most engaging smile while pointing to his pocket. I leaned in, of course, to see what he was trying to show me. Low and behold it was his treasure, a little pet mouse he kept in his pocket. I don’t remember the rest; let’s just hope I didn’t come off as a weird lady he will always associate with Americans. I think I know where this phobia originated (it involves my two rascal brothers) but my challenge has been to never convey or pass my fear on to children in my care. By the way, I did come a long way with my own children when their Aunt Grace presented them with two Peruvian Guinea Pigs. That is until my son casually placed one of them (this act was innocent of malice on his part) on my chest as I lounged on the couch reading a book. I wasn’t expecting it and let’s just say I’ve never been able to make peace with the little creatures no matter how hard I’ve tried. My question is, do any of you have phobias you try to keep from the little ones?