So, truth.
Until recently, I was not a fan of Little Women. I hadn’t even read the whole book. By recently, I mean last month.
The book was introduced to me when I was 10 and it was given as a birthday party favour. I remember my mom saying that I’d love it. But, I didn’t read beyond the first few chapters.
I thought the girls sounded overly dramatic, whiny or goody goody and they seemed so much older than I was that I couldn’t relate to their goals and dreams. I put it down and didn’t pick it up again.
Fast forward 30 plus years and here I am, having finished the book in almost one sitting, devouring the characters and their goals and dreams. Living in their world as if they were my family. Relating to each character, especially Marmee, and seeing their world individualized through each of their personalities. It all started with a recommendation to watch the newest movie adaptation, which I grudgingly tuned into and absolutely loved, and then led to watching the mini series, which I think I loved more.
There is a purpose to this post, and the purpose is this: Just because our children don’t enjoy something the first time, doesn’t mean they won’t enjoy it in the future.
It might be that they aren’t ready for the experience.
It might mean that they need a gentler way into the topic we want to share.
It might also mean that they just don’t like it, and that is okay too.
It might be that what we want to share is meant for a specific time and place in their life and this isn’t the moment. Maybe the moment will be when they are middle aged and adjusting to many changes in their life, and this book will provide the anchor and inspiration they need to walk through it (but I could be projecting here!)
Sometimes, our enthusiasm is misplaced and if we look deeply at the child in front of us what they really need will show itself. I remember a particular movie I wanted to share with my children that I remembered loving as a child. But when I pre-watched it again, through the eyes of my children who I held in my heart, I knew it wasn’t the right time. While it might have been okay for me to watch as a child (or maybe not, but that’s a topic for a different time!) it wasn’t appropriate for my children yet.
Most often, after some passing time, our offering will fit right into their phase of life and they will join you in the world you so wanted to share. And then, you can watch all the movies and read all the books and have wonderful conversations about all the things this new world has brought you.
Until then, don’t fret.
Forcing things won’t create love, and there are so many other things to connect over.
Until next time,
Marina
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