Gabriel began sleeping in Jonas's room because Jonas specifically requested his parents' permission to take on a share of the responsibility for caring for the infant. This arrangement was initiated by Jonas himself, driven by his growing connection to Gabriel and a desire to help alleviate the burden of his care.
The Rationale Behind Jonas's Request
Jonas's decision to have Gabriel sleep in his room was a significant moment, highlighting his evolving maturity and empathy. Several factors contributed to this shift in sleeping arrangements:
- Sharing Responsibility: Gabriel, as a Nurturing Center infant, required constant care, especially due to his difficulty sleeping through the night. Jonas, feeling a strong bond with the baby, actively sought to contribute to his well-being by taking on a portion of the nighttime care.
- A Deeper Connection: Jonas had already developed a unique connection with Gabriel, especially since he had started receiving memories from the Giver. This connection fostered a sense of protection and responsibility towards the infant, prompting him to seek a more direct role in his care.
- Practical Support: By having Gabriel in his room, Jonas could attend to the baby directly when he woke up crying, offering comfort and support. For example, when Gabriel would cry, Jonas would pat his back, sometimes using soothing memories transmitted by the Giver to calm him.
This arrangement not only provided practical assistance to his parents but also deepened Jonas's understanding of love and responsibility, setting the stage for his future actions.
