My 5-year-old daughter loved it when we would volunteer at the elementary school's publishing center. She would happily skip down the colorfully decorated hallway to pick up a few enthusiastic 7-year-old writers. She was excited because she knew that we were going to interview some happy 2nd grade authors about their imaginative and often heartfelt stories.
The kids would be very eager to share all their favorites for the "about the author" section. And they would really love it when asked about the characters or action in their stories. After speaking with the kids, I could sometimes sense that a second story with the same characters were in the works. It was fun for me to witness that creative excitement as it was happening. Maybe there are a couple of film directors in the making there too!
It has been such a pleasure this past school year to see all the enthusiasm and creativity naturally blossoming out of all these life-loving 2nd graders. Talking with the kids about their stories became an unexpected and very welcome gift for both of us in many ways. We left the school with the biggest smiles and such hope for this world. Kids are wonderful, and I look forward to seeing all the positivity and greatness coming out of this upcoming generation.
Too many people see the negative behavior in kids today. I choose to be optimistic and trusting that the majority of kids will surprise and delight us with the choices that they make in the future. The spark of life, love, joy, creativity, and fellowship never leaves a child, even when they hit those tough teen years.
As adults, we just have to remember to encourage "this little light of mine - I'm gonna let it shine."
