Hands off

Never underestimate the power of body language.

By now, we should all be aware of the connotations related to certain physical expressions.

In different cultures, common motions, such as handshakes or high fives, are considered

 either disrespectful or downright obscene.  It just isn't done!

And according to my mother, the same could be said of the actions of babies and children.

Toddlers are often seen looking backwards through their own legs and sometimes through their mothers' Just a part of growing up, right? According to Mama, it is not innocent fun and games. Assuming that position means they are looking for the next baby.

Oh yes, the placement of one's hands can mean different things. I remember reprimands for assuming 'The Thinker' pose, with one's chin on one's hand, apparently when we do it, it does not convey the same deep, philosophical introspection as the statue, instead, we were "propping sorrow". In other words, holding up our heads as though the worry was too much to bear.

Heaven forbid, you put your hand on your head because that has a powerful meaning too. I remember the first time I heard Mama ask my baby if she was trying to kill me. Apparently that pose is a foreshadow of doom and killing your mother is not okay, no matter how frustrated she makes you feel.

You cannot fold your arms across your body, not even to stave off cold or company, because you would be tying up your life and you definitely cannot stand with your hands on your hips because it was the epitome of disrespect and not seemly for children to do so. Pointing fingers was definitely out as you know there are four more pointing back right at you.

There was quite a list of 'don't-do-that's for a growing body in my home. When I think about it, I am rather surprised that we did not spend all our formidable years standing at 'At-ten -shun!'