Joseph E. Reed
Kids Hugs Are Healing
Kids' hugs are healing
Their voices are songs
Their cries enliven - see how they move me!
And the snot on their faces
May indeed be yucky and gross!!
But it is able to induce intense adoration
Just like all things mixed with cuteness
Ah! their eyes so wide with wonder
Their hearts so wide with love
So possible
So capable
So clumsy and toddling
So eager to squeeze
So willing to laugh
So mindful in play
So forgetful of time's constraints
With little feet they dance, dance free
And great kingdoms are let to be
When embraced by and embracing such as these.
Joseph E. Reed
April 3, 2018
I have discovered a renewed joy spending time with children. I could call it working with children, but really, it's best as play!
I am currently employed as a musician for the Georgia Learning and Tutoring Center daycare in Roswell (Northern Atlanta area). It's great! I get to come in and play my guitar, violin, piano, ukulele, and sing for the children and the staff. It provides a soothing, positive energy.

Sometimes, I'll just do soft instrumental background music while they are drawing of playing with clay or toys. Other times I'll rock out while they all show off their dancing skills on the carpet. (I've seen some pretty awesome dance skills actually!)
But one thing I like most is the HUGS! When I walk in with my guitar I hear "It's the Music Man!!!" Then several will run up to me and give my knee a great squeeze! "Hello Mr. Joseph!!" It's the coolest thing ever!
Their hugs and joy, even their tears and frustrations, melt my heart and remind me to relax and BE. To care. To love. To PLAY!
I am quite grateful for this opportunity. Kara Hines, the director is such a visionary for choosing to include the arts, music, and theater into the programs the daycare provides. I think, the more playing, the better!