Learning to Read

On the first day of class, right out of the gate he let us have it – “All men were NOT created equal” he boldly stated. Despite what we may have read in our history books – this High School Latin teacher ( yes, Latin ) was introducing us to the real facts – at least according to him.

His point was that we were a privileged few. We had the opportunity before us to learn. We had access to a great store of knowledge. Of course, what we chose to do with that wealth of information was up to us. Just that fact that we were in those hallowed halls of learning made us different ( not better, mind you ) than ninety percent of the children on this planet.

We had an opportunity to learn. To benefit from the wealth of information our teachers were prepared to share. Surely every parent wants his or her children to have the opportunity to learn. Our teachers here in the USA do a mostly wonderful job with our youth. And wouldn’t you argue that – in the end – the responsibility is ours, as parents, to help our children learn?

Half way through the Pastor’s message on a recent Sunday evening my ten year old gently tugged on my arm and whispered - “Daddy, Can we read a verse after Church is over?” I quietly nodded and smiled – assuring him that we would. Like so many parents I often find I’m at a complete loss when attempting to understand what sometimes goes through his little head.

He has somehow acquired a thirst for learning more about the lessons in the Bible. He and his little brother both enjoy the Sunday morning and Wednesday evening lessons the youth leaders share. His excitement for learning about God is no less than amazing! This is the same 10 year old who usually shuns my efforts to read together at home. Reading is reading – Anything ( within reason ) he actually wants to read is fine with me!

What is it that those volunteer youth leaders teach these highly impressionable little ones? How did this interest in the Bible happen? Whatever they do - Whatever happened – I’m very grateful and encouraged. Maybe the lessons they are learning will help them develop into loving, caring youngsters. Maybe they will share the love they get with others. Maybe they will even help others learn to read!

Learning to read is one of the greatest lessons we can hope to share with our beloved youth.