Reading to children is a wonderful way to nurture their imagination and creativity. One name that rings a bell is Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr Seuss – who with his imaginative characters and creative rhymes, taught us about everything from courage, gratitude to the profound wonders of the universe.
He was a perfectionist in his work and would sometimes spend up to a year on a book. Few of his well known stories and illustrations were “The Cat in the Hat”, “Green Eggs & Ham”, “How The Grinch Stole Christmas”, “Lorax” and “Horton Hears a Who!”
Let’s travel through the realms of his wondrous imagination to learn some profound words of wisdom.
Here are eight lessons we can learn from Dr Seuss books that we can apply in our daily lives.
1) Nonsense wakes up the brain cells. And it helps develop a sense of humor, which is awfully important in this day and age. Humor has a tremendous place in this sordid world. It’s more than just a matter of laughing. If you can see things out of whack, then you can see how things can be in whack.
Why do people take life so seriously? A sense of humour helps us get through the uncertainties and absurdities of life. Having a sense of humour doesn’t mean you don’t value a situation, but simply shows the willingness to deal with it in a more fun way.
2) You can get help from teachers, but you are going to have to learn a lot by yourself, sitting alone in a room.
Teachers or mentors can guide you and show you the way. But its you and you alone who has to walk the path and navigate through the ups and downs of life. No matter how much you read or have been told, experience is always the best teacher.
3) Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.
These words hold true not only for children but also grown ups, who try to be someone so they can fit in or get other peoples approval. You need to be true to yourself, accept yourself the way you are, because everything that you are is what makes you special and unique.
As Dr. Seuss points out: Why fit in when you were born to stand out?
4) “You’re off to Great Places!
Today is your day!
Your mountain is waiting,
So… get on your way!”
Follow your dreams, no matter how difficult it seems. Whatever your mountain is, you need to over come it. The mountain represents an obstacle in your life, which will take strength and perseverance to accomplish. Cast away the burden that’s holding you back, believe in yourself and keep moving forward.
5) You’ll miss the best things if you keep your eyes shut.
Children see the world without any filters that distort their perspectives, everything is new and this makes them rather curious. This curiosity fades away as we grow old and it limits our true potential. The above message tells us to rekindle that love of learning and see the world like we used to as a child.
6) “So be sure when you step, Step with care and great tact. And remember that life’s A Great Balancing Act. And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed! (98 and ¾ percent guaranteed) Kid, you’ll move mountains.”
Words of encouragement and caution from Dr Seuss. You need a little bit of planing to make progress in the right direction. Choose your steps carefully in life and things will fall into place. The importance of balance has been spoken about enough, yet once again a subtle reminder, finding balance is key!
7) A person’s a person, no matter how small.”
This is a powerful message in today’s world which is divided based on religion and ethnicity. Everyone deserves the same respect, no matter the caste, creed, nationality, or race. We get so stuck with the external, height, weight or color that we forget each one of us is a soul.
8) “I have heard there are troubles of more than one kind. Some come from ahead and some come from behind. But I’ve bought a big bat. I’m all ready you see. Now my troubles are going to have troubles with me!”
This is a beautiful message that helps us realise that you can take charge of your troubles. If your stuck with it, its time for you to shift your perspective and deal with it head on. Don’t let fear take control, put on your gloves get your bat and smack it out of your life. It time for you to trouble your troubles.
If you have any more inspiring messages by Dr Seuss that resonate with you do add them in the comments 🙂
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