When I was a small child, maybe around four, I knew the
order of the planets but had no concept that we actually lived on one of them.
They were just those things up in outer space. Therefore, I thought earthworms
must come from outer space, since they came from Earth, or else why would people have
to specify? However, I sensed there was something wrong with my logic, since
people did not get excited about earthworms and since I wasn’t sure how they
would get here. Little worm spaceships?
When I told Light Bright this story, she said, “Deep
thoughts for a four-year-old. I’m not sure I know the order of the planets now!
The first one is Mars, right?”
“Nope, that’s Mercury,” I said.
“Then Mars comes next,” Light Bright said confidently.
“No,” I said, “Next comes Venus.” And I taught her that old,
racy mnemonic “Mary’s Violet Eyes Make John Stay Up Nights (Panting)” to
remember the order of the planets. Of course, since Pluto has been downgraded
from planet status, John must not be panting anymore.
Famous Hat
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