September Norm
Every year, people ask me, "What are your plans for your birthday?" Except for my kids and Julie; they know I am hiding from the world, off in some faraway land with a good book in my hands.
This year, I spent a little time with Theo of Golden. No spoilers here--just some observations. When I finished the book, I immediately called my friend Jane. We jockeyed questions like, "Did you expect...?" and "What did you think about...?" and "How do you think...?" and of course, as we would with any good book whose characters came to life before the words even left the page, "Will Levi write a sequel?" We both hope so. (Mr. Levi, I've been telling everyone to read your book.)
You may be wondering why I am writing about this on a Christian women's ministry site. Well, it's because the book's protagonist moved me. I am an English teacher by trade, but I am also a bookworm. I can Alice my way into a text just by lifting the cover of a text. I'm also a bibliophile, so I have a library of texts to choose from on any given day, but on this birthday, I had to see what all of the fuss was about Theo of Golden.
Kindness
Every year, Julie and I have this discussion: "What can we do?" Our purpose is to serve by being an example of service. As I was reading about Theo and all of the magnificently developed characters Levi wrote, I began to recognize the draw. Theo demonstrated kindness to everyone he met. I would like to do the same.
Now, I fail on a regular basis. Sometimes, the words don't come out right. Sometimes I'm quick to speak when I should be quick to listen. Most of the time, I am prideful, but I want to be kind.
Colossians 3:12 (NIV):Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
As I head into the fall of another school year, I'm keeping Jesus in front of me, and I'm taking a note out of Theo's book--considering how small acts of kindness bless others.
Praying peace and comfort over you,
Michelle
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