Once Upon a Time…
For centuries, when these four words have been spoken, or read, we’ve waited, with bated breath, for a tale of inspiration or wonder. It has become the promise of a story …and we love stories!
Titles like The Wizard of Oz, The Wind in the Willows, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, or The Tale of Peter Rabbit have captured our imagination time and again. Even the success of STAR WARS has to do with the beauty of it’s storytelling. We may argue about silly characters, or twist in specific movies, but on the whole, it is the most popular story of my lifetime.
You see stories everywhere, movies, TV series, theater, even in commercials. Whether they’re foolish, inspiring, intentionally stupid, or heart-wrenching, the connection to the human soul is story!
Children love stories!
…and as Dad, you are the ultimate storyteller (whether you think so – or not), because of your children’s affection for you. When they are young, they will sit in your presence – if not in your lap – and listen to as many stories as you will tell them (especially at bed time).
For the last 3 posts we’ve been talking about C.A.S.T. ing your love on your children. The “C” in the acronym stands for Connect with them. In the last post I gave some suggestions on giving your Attention to your kids, which is the “A” in the acronym. Today we are looking at the “S”, Storytelling.
Tell your children stories, every chance you get.
What do I mean? …I’m glad you asked…
Think about these specifics in how you can be storytelling:
- Read to them…
a. Your favorite stories
b. Stories with morals and redeeming qualities
c. Stories that lift up the characteristics you want to see in them
d. Bible Stories - Tell them your own stories of…
a. Favorite childhood memories
b. Relate-able points in your childhood
c. How you learned specific truths about life
d. Difficulties that you faced, and overcame - Tell them your love story… (girls particularly like this, but boys should know it too)
a. How you met your wife
b. How you won your wife
c. How you proposed
d. What you love most about your wife - Watch meaningful movies/ TV shows…
a. Remember you are the parent, so pick things that will build them up
b. Choose themes that encourage character and have a lesson
c. That meet them where they are, not ones that bring in older themes too soon
d. Avoid meaningless animation – or shows that have too many “hidden” adult themes (the reality is that it may seem to go over their head, but they will ask YOU what it means so make sure you’re ready for them to know)
Beyond these stories, you will tell your children the story of how you believe life should be led, in the way you act.
“Every leader is telling a story about what he, or she, values in the way they behave.”
– Disney Approach to Leadership Excellence
I love this quote, because it brings to light the reality that we are all storytellers of one kind or another. So, the question then becomes what is the story you are trying to tell?
“WE ARE MEN OF ACTION…”
Dad… I want to challenge you! Intentionally be a storyteller to each of your children today! Communicate with them, in a way that will build them up and make them feel like they are part of a great story… because they are! Read to them. Enjoy stories with them. Encourage their imagination beyond your own.
You can do it! C.A.S.T. Your love upon your children today!