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March 11, 2004
The Giving Tree
I read <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0060256656/ref=sib_rdr_dp/103-7112127-2389426?%5Fencoding=UTF8&no=283155&me=ATVPDKIKX0DER&st=books">The Giving Tree</a></i> by Shel Silverstein to O and M the other day and I found myself crying while reading. I literally could not get through each page without choking up. I don't know if the kids knew that I was crying - I was hoping they didn't because I did not know how I could explain that such a simple and beautifully written story could make me cry. I could have discussed with them the many sacrifices that the tree made or the apparent selfishness of the boy.. but I couldn't bring myself to bring it up. I wanted to finish the book as fast as I possibly could. Why? It's a beautiful story. I think it reminded me of my selfishness from when I was growing up, taking everything for granted, assuming I could take take take and not have to give give give.
My girls had completely changed my life. Now, I give give give and they take, as they should. They are a part of me and I will always give to them, until I have no more left to give.
Posted by Cate at March 11, 2004 09:54 AM
Comments
I gave a copy of that book to each of my children when they were born. As a child I cried when I read it, but I wasn't sure why. Now that I have grown, I understand why I did then, and am so grateful I had that book to give me some way to express my love.
Posted by: karri at March 11, 2004 10:15 AM
You tell them exactly that... the the compassion of the tree made you feel like crying and that they are good tears.
- d
Posted by: -d at March 11, 2004 11:38 AM
that's always been my favourite book - ever since i was 2
Posted by: erin at March 11, 2004 02:27 PM
(although it's sort of a dysfunctional story and such...)
Posted by: erin at March 11, 2004 02:28 PM
That is one of Alex's favorites right now. It's a beautifully written story- I tear up as well. ((hugs))
Posted by: Michelle at March 11, 2004 05:22 PM
Just checking in!
I need to put that one on my list of favorite books.
Take care and keep in touch!
Dan
Posted by: Dan at March 11, 2004 05:48 PM
