Category Archives: Learning

My first Compassion International advocate presentation: An unexpected lesson

Posted on by
5

And the lesson was learned by me.

Yesterday, as I packed the things I would need for the Vacation Bible School I was going to today, my eldest, Susan, asked to tag along.

At first, I didn’t think it a good idea.

I didn’t want to be a mom on duty, I just wanted to be an Advocate talking about children living in extreme poverty. I wanted the drive down to be a mental break from the house and all it’s craziness. And I guess part of me thought she would get in the way. She’s ten. It’s way better than a toddler, but still she has her moments of silliness.

But as she tried on a sarong I planned to bring as a prop, I couldn’t help but say yes.

Susan did great modeling the sarong, quick to jump up next to me at her cue, with no fear of standing in front a group of strange kids. She wore the Indonesian sun hat with pride. The best part of all: Susan watched her mommy talk passionately about children that need help, children living in a world she has only seen in a book or on DVD.

I wrote recently how I want to find opportunities for my children to learn about justice and helping others, so to almost miss this kid-friendly chance leaves me disappointed with myself. I need to stop thinking of Susan as a little girl, but as a young lady who can participate in ministry along side me.

Life lessons from SpongeBob Squarepants

Posted on by
12

With apologies to Robert Fulghum, I’ve my own list of life lessons ripped right from the TV screen. In a moment of pure genius, or silliness, depending on your point of view, I found a way to use my children’s favorite cartoon to illustrate good and not-so-desirable behavior.

What I learned from SpongeBob Squarepants:spongebob has no sholders?

Lesson 1. Be determined like Plankton

Plankton is the villain of Bikini Bottom, SpongeBob’s hometown. Plankton is grouchy, he wants his way all the time, yet he does have one redeeming quality – he’s determined. He wants that secret Krabby Patty recipe, yet in every episode, he’s foiled. But does Plankton give up because his plan for restaurant domination is not going his way? No way. That’s what I tell my 9-year-old daughter as she memorizes multiplication facts- be determined like Plankton.

Lesson 2. Starfish have brains, you do too. Use your brain.

I feel sorry for Patrick. He means well, but he’s a bit of a bumbler. Contrary to what the cartoon writers tell you, starfish do have brains. So I tell my kids: God gave you a brain, don’t forget to use it. Don’t act stupid like Patrick. A few days after telling my kids this, I found myself explaining to one of my children why it’s a bad idea to burn leaves and sticks in the backyard with a magnifying glass. That child obviously needs a refresher of Lesson 2.

Lesson 3. Don’t do a Squidward

Complaining, lazy, never-satisfied Squidward is such a downer. He sits behind the register at the restaurant and looks for things to complain about. Does this guy ever smile? Don’t be like Squidward and complain when learning how to load the dishwasher, okay?

Lesson 4: Money will never love Mr. Krabs

Mr. Krabs is obsessed with his money making, he frets about it constantly, never seeming to enjoy the success he already has. I tell my children it’s okay to work hard for your money, but don’t obsess. Money can’t love you back. Be generous with the blessings in your life. Since my gang is still working on the fact that cash can get you more than toys and candy, I don’t dwell on No. 4 too much.

Lesson 5: SpongeBob is my hero

You have to applaud SpongeBob, he works in dire conditions as a fry cook, most likely for minimum wage, and he has to put up with Squidward and Mr. Krabs. But for all the negatives, our hero loves his work. Not only is SpongeBob a dedicated worker, he’s a loyal friend to Patrick. Be a patient friend too. I’ve watched SpongeBob be helpful and kind to those not so nice to him.

There you have it: lessons for living thanks to silly cartoon creatures on Nickelodeon. Be determined, use your brain, work hard, be loyal and a patient friend. Don’t love money or be a complainer.

Today’s post is dedicated to the wild creature known as the Five Year Old Boy. Especially mine with a fondness for singing the SpongeBob theme song full volume as he rides the swing in the backyard. My apologies to the neighbors.

—

Once a month, members of the High Calling Blogs community may participate in a group writing project. This month the theme is “What I learned from animals.” On June 16, the list of all blogs with a post will be listed at Middle Zone Musings.

© 2008 Monica Brand | Paper Bridges