My new nephews hands are a marvel to me. I watched him in his mother's arms yesterday and wondered that my two kids could have ever been that little. How does time pass so quickly? One day they are tiny cooing wonders, the next they are finishing elementary school! My mother promised I would love each stage more than the last -- that is until the teen years (and then she would simply smile). May I enjoy the teen years with my kids more than all the rest of these previous stages combined. It is so great to talk with them and get their opinions. I just wish that Wonder Boy were more hopeful (he feels global warming will kill us all) and that Super Girl knew phrases besides "Who cares?" and "So?" May I instill caring, optimism and faith -- without these we are lost.
The Last Battle......
The other night my kids asked me to read to them! I savored the moment as I had the pleasure of reading C.S. Lewis' "The Last Battle" from the Chronicles of Narnia. We have read this series aloud together... but as you may know, the last book is darker and harder to get through. Wonder Boy insisted that we get back to family reading nights (YIPPEE! His choice without me pushing!). I was skeptical since I didn't want to continue without Super Girl. She has not been interested and is a tween you know... nothing is cool.
Well, magic happened. EVERYONE was on board to read the last battle together. Previously I'd refused to continue my Oscar worthy reading aloud due to lack of Super Girl's participation. She was on board! I snuggled between them on the couch and we read 2 chapters. I was then asked if we could do a marathon tomorrow. WHAT A WONDERFUL GIFT THIS IS TO ME! (sorry for shouting, I'm excited).
You see, this final book in the chronicles carries home BIG themes from our faith. Great messages for kids are layered on top of each other like the rings of an old tree -- they go on and on. This book series is so timeless and is such a reinforcement of our faith. When my kids get it I feel like less of a failure in their spiritual upbringing. Looking back I could have done better -- I want them to have a stronger base than I've given because my faith has carried me through the worst of times. I just need to get better at attending mass! The rituals of the church bring comfort and strength... may I still instill this as my babies head into their most challenging years of their lives.
I have refused to see the Narnia movies because we have not yet finished reading the series. I didn't want my kids to see the movies because movies are NEVER as good as books. Reading these books together brought back the joy of my experience with them as a child -- by far this is no book series which has ever captured my imagination in the same way. The redemption of all by the sacrifice of one -- how amazing that a writer could take this concept and make it accessible to children through a book series that has a talking lion as a symbol of redemption.
We will finish this last book (not my favorite of the series, but necessary). After that we plan to read on together. This is a huge blessing which I will savor. What a gift that my children still enjoy when I read to them. I am grateful. I can't wait to read with them again...
5 comments:
I remember when JD was born... he was as long as my forearm... now, at 14, he's about 4 inches taller than me! lol. Where does the time go? Wow.
I cried when you related the reading story. being a divorced dad, i just don't get those opportunities to read with my kids like that anymore, and it hurts.
but I'm really glad that you have such a great memory for your own children that way. good on you! sounds sensationally fantastic.
I haven't read all of the Narnia Chronicles myself, and don't know that particular book at all. Thanks for the heads-up.
Cyalayta
Mal :)
I love family reading night. I miss it too. My kids all want to read alone now. Every once in a while, one of them will ask me to read to her. I snuggle close and enjoy every second of it.
I do know exactly what you mean about getting back into the church routine. I am spiritual, but have not been going to church. When I use to go, I always felt so good after. However, I need to give my kids a stronger base, especially during this difficult time. I want them to have the same comfort I do, when I pray.
I have never read the Narnia Chronicles. My husband did and took the girls to the movie as soon as it was out. Now you have me interested.
XOXO
Oh Mal! So sorry -- I admit I write about these moments because I cling to them... it is what gets me through the frustrations. I bet you make tons of memories with your kids when they are with you.
Eileen - Just caught up, so sorry for all you have been going through. Do read the Chronicles of Narnia -- it is a great hopeful book series that will provide a good escape. Share it with your girls -- I read the series over and over as a teen.
Oh, those beautiful baby hands . . . thank you for sharing them!
I can't wait until my kids are old enough to read the Chronicles of Narnia with me. I found the cartoon version of the movie at the library to watch with them. Brings me back to childhood!
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