The Stairwell News by Susanne Crane

Susanne Crane is an artist/educator working on a local restoration project in the historic district.

Here’s some good news. This is what happened one day at Kid’s College, in downtown Albert Lea, on a perfectly normal day.

The energy was high due to spring weather and a particular mix of personalities on this day. Lilly and Emery took a break from more serious artistic endeavors to pretend they were ninjas. It was amusing because they are very sweet, non-violent people in real life. Since they are not really ninjas, they were not entirely coordinated in their movements at all times and ended up bumping into each other accidentally. These things happen sometimes, unfortunately. This was not the good news.

I was immediately informed that a nosebleed had occurred and that one of the girls had just run into the bathroom crying. Everyone was hopeful that she could be helped to feel better soon. While I was tending to her, everyone else was very quiet, and a solemn mood was cast over this group of friends.

Kid’s College students take creativity and their ability to cause positive change in the world very seriously. They are used to working on community projects and coming up with possible solutions to problems they see in the world. I am often amazed at what they come up with and how thoughtful and present they are in general. This day was no exception.

After a few moments, there was a slight shuffle of fabric and feet at the doorway. Someone cleared their throat. I glanced away from my patient to see a strange and interesting sight. Morgan and Gavin had entered the room wearing floor-length bridesmaid’s dresses over their sweatshirts,  jeans and canvas shoes, acting like this was perfectly normal. Morgan noticed the quizzical expression on my face and said, with mock-serious gravity, “We are the cheer-up squad.” Sniffling turned to laughter. Morgan smirked. Gavin beamed and the mood was lifted. Soon everyone was chattering away once again, about a myriad of issues and the dresses were hanging back in the costume closet ready for future theatrics.

Kids are amazing in general, but these kids’ hearts are so full of kindness and collaboration, it gives me great hope for the future. This is just one example of many. It made my day, so I thought I would share it with you. I hope it made you smile.

Thanks to everyone who has done that for me in difficult times. Warmest regards.