This is news to me

It was a typical Saturday afternoon, and my little whirlwind was determined to turn Target’s entrance into his personal jungle gym. The large, inviting red spheres that flank the store entrance had always been a source of fascination for him (and, let’s be honest, many other children). So, naturally, he decided to climb on one.

Suddenly, a stern voice boomed, “Hey! Get down from there!” I was startled. My child looked crestfallen, and I felt a mix of embarrassment and indignation. What had he done wrong?

The “big red spheres,” as I’ve come to call them, are actually called bollards. They’re not just decorative; they’re safety barriers designed to prevent vehicles from crashing into the store entrance. Their bright red color is part of Target’s branding, making them instantly recognizable.

While their primary function is safety, they undeniably invite interaction, especially from curious little hands. My son, of course, wasn’t the first child to be drawn to these seemingly playful objects. The man who yelled at him likely did so out of concern for my child’s safety, but his approach was less than ideal.

This incident became an unexpected teachable moment. We talked about respecting public property, understanding the rules, and the importance of listening to adults who are trying to keep us safe. It also sparked a conversation about public art and how even functional objects can have a visual impact.

The red spheres at Target serve as a reminder that public spaces are shared environments. They require a balance between functionality and aesthetics, and sometimes, a little understanding and a dash of humor can go a long way.

I hope my son’s “red sphere adventure” serves as a gentle reminder to us all: sometimes, the most unexpected experiences can lead to valuable lessons.