Quite contrary

Mary was so excited about wearing her boots today that I suggested we take a picture.

And this is how she posed for me...

Oh, Mary.

You are so smart and mature. Your determination and powers of concentration never cease to amaze me.

But your defiance is wearing me thin.

And the obvious pleasure you take in doing exactly the opposite of what I ask is a bit unsettling.

(Also, the "no-no-no" song you like to sing has lost its cuteness.)

I suppose I should chalk it up to stereotypical two-year-old behavior. But I think it may be something more: You are amazing. Already I can see that God has blessed you with the seeds of great talents. Somehow, your defiance is a manifestation of your great abilities. A sign of accomplishments to come. May God grant me the patience to last long enough to see them.