Over the years I’ve observed kids and their love for whimsy. So, I write whimsical rhymes. Fun, funny rhymes. Full of imagination. And filled with color, action, and rhythm. I want word pictures to leap into those growing little minds. And I firmly believe the words I write for kids should help them build faith, hope, and love. With a smile.
Lots of writers, these days, prefer to go the route of realism.
Yeah, they think even books for kids should “reflect the culture.” I couldn’t disagree more.
And I disagree because of those word pictures I mentioned.
Kids already get enough reality in the real world. They can watch just five minutes of a news program and see how unsafe this world is. And the so-called “news” and “entertainment” they hear and see can put some awful word pictures in their brains. So, they certainly don’t need to dive into a poem, or story, or book and find those words and images there, too.
That’s why I provide “an escape.” It’s always my goal to share optimism with kids. To write whimsical words about faith, hope, and love. All the media they consume should nurture those feelings. And it should show them dark days don’t last forever and the good guy wins. Sadly, most of what they hear and watch is like junk food for their brains.
So, I take my cue from Paul, the amazing writer you can find in the New Testament section of The Bible.
Paul’s letters show you how your dark days won’t last forever. And how the good guy wins. Plus, he talks about the awesome love that provides a happy ending for anyone who wants it. Come on, you gotta admit. That powers up some mighty nice word pictures. Right?
Of course, Paul’s writings were serious. And theological. But I believe he would appreciate my whimsical way with words. Because he would see how my goal is the same as his.
And, on that note, here are some word pictures for the kiddos to show them how unique they are.
No Other Person
Once upon a time you were one little cell
Living in your mom where you formed so well.
Then you were born and everyone knew
There was no other person who was quite like you.
You got bigger and you wondered why
A fish could swim and a bird could fly.
Every little thing was a fun, little game.
A dog was a friend, and you gave it a name.
A little more time, and you learned to read.
Each word was a friend that planted a seed
That formed an idea in your curious mind.
Then your need for knowledge left the kid behind.
That was well and good, and it had to be.
There was so much more in the world to see.
But please remember and don’t forget…
There are things in life that you might regret.
Don’t let love ever take a back seat.
Be willing to share it with whomever you meet.
Then, people might say, when you’re life is through…
There was no other person who was quite like you.
© 2013
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